Rep. Andy Ogles loses Tennessee GOP primary, third House Republican to lose renomination this year

Published Aug 6, 10:58 PM UTC

Tennessee Republican Representative Andy Ogles lost his primary election on August 6, 2026, to former state Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, becoming the third House Republican to lose a renomination bid this year. The Associated Press called the race for the 5th District with Hatcher leading 53% to 47%. The defeat is notable as President Donald Trump had reiterated his support for Ogles earlier that day. Ogles faced multiple controversies, including a House Ethics investigation into his campaign finances, accusations of résumé embellishment, and inflammatory remarks about Muslims and homosexuality. The district was significantly altered under Tennessee's new congressional map, now connecting Memphis to the Nashville area along the Kentucky border. Hatcher, a dairy farmer and veterinarian, received late endorsements from Governor Bill Lee and former Governor Bill Haslam, and benefited from $2 million in outside support. Hatcher will face Democratic nominee Chaz Molder in the general election, though the district is rated Solid Republican by Inside Elections.