Nashville, TN, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Early voting for the special election in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District has experienced low turnout, with fewer than 14,000 ballots cast across 14 counties. Davidson County reports under 3% participation among registered voters. The election, which features 19 candidates, will determine a successor for retired U.S. Rep. Mark Green. Additional legislative updates include Sen. Marsha Blackburn’s introduction of the ‘Chloe Cole Act’ aiming to ban gender transition treatments for minors, amid scrutiny over state education and agriculture departments.
Nashville, Tennessee – Low Turnout for Early Voting in 7th Congressional District Special Election
Fewer than 14,000 people have cast ballots across 14 counties during the early voting period for the special election to fill the vacancy left by retired U.S. Rep. Mark Green in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. This figure highlights a notably low turnout, according to data from Secretary of State Tre Hargett’s office.
In Davidson County, the turnout is particularly low, with less than 3% of the 116,330 eligible registered voters participating. This accounts for a total of 3,343 voters. The turnout is divided between parties, with approximately 54% of voters participating in the Republican primary and 46% in the Democratic primary.
Early voting is ongoing until October 2, with the special primary election scheduled for October 7. Voters will have the opportunity to choose from a ballot featuring 19 candidates: 11 Republicans, 4 Democrats, and 4 independents.
Recent Legislative Actions and Issues
In related political news, U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn has introduced the “Chloe Cole Act,” aiming to establish a national ban on chemical and surgical gender transition treatments for children. The act seeks to codify an existing executive order that currently prohibits such treatments for minors. In addition, Blackburn’s legislation allows for legal action by children and parents who regret pursuing gender transition treatments.
Supporting Blackburn’s bill is Attorney General Pam Bondi, who describes the procedures involved in “gender-affirming care” as harmful and equates them to a form of abuse. Meanwhile, the state’s education sector faces scrutiny as Tennessee Department of Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds continues to be enrolled in an Educator Preparation Program despite lacking a Tennessee teaching license and classroom experience after two years in her role.
Audit Findings Prompt Administrative Changes
A state audit has also revealed that the Tennessee Department of Agriculture lacked sufficient controls over $64 million in grant funds. Out of 13 programs reviewed, 12 were found to be missing necessary accountability data. Following these findings, Governor Bill Lee has recently sworn in Andy Holt as the new Agriculture Commissioner.
Discussion on Religious Values and Legislative Changes
U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Columbia, recently discussed the need to restore a “Christian Republic,” emphasizing that America relies on Biblical Christian values in light of the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
The Tennessee Supreme Court is set to determine the legality of a law that reduces the Metro Nashville Council size from 40 to 20 members, with a recent appeal being granted on this matter. In judicial news, Justice Holly Kirby of the Tennessee Supreme Court announced her retirement effective June 30, 2026, after serving since 2014 and as chief justice in 2023.
Funding and Campaign Updates
In the lead-up to the congressional primary, Democratic candidates have raised about $825,000 collectively, with businessman Darden Copeland leading the fundraising efforts.
FAQ
Q: What is the current voter turnout for early voting in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District?
A: Fewer than 14,000 people have cast ballots across 14 counties.
Q: When does early voting end?
A: Early voting is ongoing until October 2.
Q: What is the date of the special primary election?
A: The special primary election is scheduled for October 7.
Q: How many candidates are on the ballot?
A: The ballot features 19 candidates: 11 Republicans, 4 Democrats, and 4 independents.
Q: What legislative act has U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn introduced?
A: U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn introduced the “Chloe Cole Act,” which seeks to establish a national ban on chemical and surgical gender transition treatments for children.
Q: What did the state audit reveal about the Tennessee Department of Agriculture?
A: The audit revealed that the department did not have sufficient controls over $64 million in grant funds, with 12 of 13 programs lacking necessary accountability data.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Nashville Mayor’s Key Aide Resigns Amid Leadership Transition
Concerns Rise Over Transparency in Elon Musk’s Music City Loop Tunnel Project
Congressman Mark Green Resigns, Special Election Looms
Megan Barry Declines Congressional Run for Mark Green’s Seat
Nashville Chamber of Commerce Appoints New Leader
Additional Resources
- Tennessee Lookout: $1 Million Candidates
- Tennessean: Low Turnout in Congressional Race
- WSMV: Early Voting Updates
- News Channel 5: Early Voting Begins
- Nashville Banner: 7th Congressional District Special Election
- Wikipedia: Tennessee
- Google Search: 2025 Tennessee Congressional Primary
- Google Scholar: Tennessee politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee
- Google News: Tennessee elections
Author: HERE Nashville
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