Tennessee’s recent state election on November 5, 2024, yielded results that underline both continuity and change in statewide leadership, along with notable public policy initiatives in transportation and public safety. Below are a few key takeaways.
Presidential and U.S. Senate Elections
Now that the vote counts are in Tennessee voters reflected national sentiments in the presidential race, with former president Donald Trump securing 64% of the vote compared to 34% for Vice President Kamala Harris. This result aligns with recent voting trends in the state, which has leaned conservative in recent cycles.
In the U.S. Senate race, Senator Marsha Blackburn won re-election with 63% support, retaining her seat against challenger Gloria Johnson, who received 34%. With Senator Blackburn’s re-election, Tennessee’s representation in the U.S. Senate will remain the same with both Senator Blackburn and Senator Hagerty representing our state at the Capitol.
U.S. House of Representatives
All nine incumbent members of Tennessee’s delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives were re-elected with strong voter support. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key congressional victories:
- Diana Harshbarger (R, District 1) won with 78%.
- Tim Burchett (R, District 2) secured 69% of the vote.
- Steve Cohen (D, District 9) led his district with 71%.
Tennessee General Assembly
This year’s state election introduced 12 new members to the 114th Tennessee General Assembly. Among these new legislators are individuals from a variety of professional and community service backgrounds, ranging from business and public service to advocacy. Notable new members include Shaundelle Brooks, a community advocate for gun safety, and Bobby Harshbarger, a pharmacist and the son of Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. While Republicans retain a majority in the legislature, these new members bring unique perspectives and differences in experience to the State Capitol.
Competitive legislative races underscored some of the key issues Tennesseans are focusing on, including community safety, educational priorities, and healthcare access. For example:
- District 97 in Memphis saw Rep. John Gillespie win re-election with 52% of the vote over challenger Jesse Huseth, in a race that centered on crime and education.
- In District 60 in Nashville, Shaundelle Brooks won an open seat with 54%, supported by those advocating for public safety reforms.
Policy Measures: Firearms in Memphis and Transit in Nashville
The election also included local policy measures aimed at addressing public safety and transportation infrastructure.
In Memphis, voters overwhelmingly approved several nonbinding resolutions on firearm safety, each with 80% or more in favor. These measures advocate for policies such as restoring permit requirements for public handgun carry, restricting certain rifles, and establishing a “red flag” law. Although nonbinding, the measures reflect strong local support for firearm safety measures.
In Nashville, residents voted to raise the local sales tax rate from 2.25% to 2.75% to support a broad $3 billion transit improvement plan. This initiative aims to increase bus service, expand sidewalk coverage, and update traffic lights across the city. The transit plan is a significant investment in Nashville’s infrastructure as the city continues to grow, addressing pressing needs for improved urban mobility.
Looking Ahead
With the 114th Tennessee General Assembly set to convene on January 14, 2025, legislators will have the opportunity to address critical areas that include public safety, educational initiatives, and infrastructure improvements.
Tennessee’s 2024 election results demonstrate the state’s commitment to advancing both established policies and community-focused initiatives. The new legislative members, along with approved local measures, reflect Tennesseans’ priorities in the year ahead as they work toward a balanced and forward-looking approach to community challenges.