Republican congressman who tried to impeach Vice President Harris faces tough primary challenge

As Tennessee gears up for its primary elections on Thursday, Republican Congressman Andy Ogles is making headlines for his repeated attempts to impeach Vice President Kamala Harris. Ogles, a member of the House Freedom Caucus and a staunch critic of President Biden’s administration, is seeking a second term representing Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District. His primary challenger, Nashville councilwoman Courtney Johnston, is painting him as a “do-nothing grandstander” embroiled in controversies.

Two years ago, Ogles emerged victorious in a crowded Republican primary in the reconfigured 5th District, which encompasses parts of Nashville, suburbs, and rural areas. Despite Johnston’s accusations, Ogles has secured the endorsements of former President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senator Bill Hagerty. On the other hand, Johnston has garnered support from establishment Republicans like former Senators Bill Frist and Bob Corker, as well as former Governor Bill Haslam.

In the upcoming general election, the winner of the GOP primary will face off against Democrat Maryam Abolfazli. Additionally, Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn, seeking reelection for a second term, is facing a primary challenge from Tres Wittum, a former state Senate policy analyst. Blackburn, a clear favorite, will compete against a crowded field of Democratic Senate hopefuls.

Aside from the congressional races, Tennessee also has primaries for state Senate and House seats, where Republicans maintain dominance. As voters head to the polls, the outcome of these races will shape the political landscape in the state and potentially impact national politics as well.