Trump-endorsed Rep. Andy Ogles loses Republican nomination for Tennessee's fifth district

The president's endorsement earlier Thursday seemed to push the incumbent over the finish line in his primary as he faced a tough challenger who secured the state's Gov. Bill Lee's endorsement.

Published: August 6, 2026 10:23pm

Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., lost his primary Thursday night, ending his campaign for reelection in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District despite the support of President Donald Trump.

The president's endorsement earlier Thursday did not appear to do enough to push the incumbent over the finish line in his primary as he faced a tough challenger who secured the state's Gov. Bill Lee's endorsement.

Former state Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, who leaned heavily into his farming background during his campaign, defeated Ogles 53.2% to 46.8%, according to the Associated Press

Ogles has been known to be an immigration hawk, introducing the Assimilation Act to crack down on abuse of the legal visa system and non-citizens receiving welfare.

The incumbent also recently announced articles of impeachment against a federal judge who moved to block the Trump administration from ending temporary protected status, despite the Supreme Court giving them the green light.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.

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