Republican U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles emerged victorious in the recent Tennessee U.S. House primary, defeating Nashville council member Courtney Johnston by a significant margin. Despite Johnston’s efforts, including over $1 million spent on television advertisements, Ogles secured a win across the district, except for the Nashville suburbs that are part of the 5th U.S. Congressional District.
Ogles, a conservative lawmaker and former mayor of Maury County, consolidated support from suburban and rural Republican voters, securing a plurality victory with 35% of the primary vote. His win in the heavily gerrymandered district, created during the 2022 redistricting cycle, marked a success for Tennessee Republicans.
During his time in Congress, Ogles has faced allegations of resume embellishments and mishandling campaign funds, which Johnston and Conservatives With Character sought to capitalize on in their campaign against him. However, Ogles managed to increase his Republican vote in the district from 21,000 in 2022 to over 32,000 in the recent primary.
Ogles will now face Democrat Maryam Abolfazli, founder of the nonprofit Rise and Shine Tennessee, in the November general election. Abolfazli has been a vocal advocate for stricter gun laws and improved public education funding, setting the stage for a competitive race in the coming months.
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Photo credit tennesseelookout.com
