US Representative Andy Ogles has been defeated in Tennessee’s Republican primary by challenger Charlie Hatcher. The Associated Press called the race on Thursday, reporting that Hatcher secured 53.3 percent of the vote compared to 46.8 percent for Ogles, with 95 percent of precincts reporting. This result represents a notable election loss for a candidate who had received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.
Hatcher, who previously served as Tennessee’s agriculture commissioner, campaigned by emphasizing his farming background and a message of service. Following his victory, he told The Associated Press that his message, which encouraged voters to work like a farmer and serve others, resonated with the electorate. Although he did not receive an endorsement from Trump, Hatcher was supported by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and campaigned as a supporter of the former president.
The primary contest was the first held under a newly redrawn congressional map in Tennessee, which was approved by the state's Republican-controlled legislature following a US Supreme Court decision that reduced federal Voting Rights Act protections for minority voters. Republicans currently hold eight of Tennessee's nine congressional seats and aim to capture the final seat in the upcoming November midterm elections. Hatcher is now set to face Democrat Chaz Molder, who emerged victorious from a crowded Democratic primary with 40.9 percent of the vote.
The campaign leading up to the primary was marked by controversy surrounding a social media post made by Ogles. The post, which stated, "Muslims don't belong in American society. Pluralism is a lie," drew widespread condemnation from Democratic lawmakers and Muslim advocacy groups. Osama Jamal, secretary-general of the US Council of Muslim Organizations, criticized the remarks, stating that hate and discrimination against others have no place in America.
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