Andy Ogles Loses Primary
Trump-backed Rep. Andy Ogles was defeated in Tennessee's Republican primary.
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Updated Aug 7, 7:43pm ETEvery side, every morning
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The reporting
Rep. Andy Ogles lost Tennessee’s 5th District Republican primary to former state Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, who led 53.2% to 46.8% with more than 95% of votes counted. Ogles, first elected in 2022 and seeking another term, had President Donald Trump’s endorsement; Hatcher had support from Gov. Bill Lee. The primary was the first in the district after Tennessee’s new congressional map reshaped Ogles’ seat. Ogles became the second Trump-backed House candidate defeated this week and the third House Republican to lose renomination this year.
Analysis & opinion
Ogles Deserved DefeatMostly Left
Andy Ogles was an especially objectionable Republican, marked by racism, extremism, scandals, and anti-immigrant politics. His primary defeat was a good outcome and reflected liabilities that even Trump’s support could not erase.
Trump Endorsement WeaknessMostly Left
Trump’s backing is no longer enough to shield Republican candidates from primary defeat. Andy Ogles’s loss is another sign that Trump’s influence inside GOP primaries has real limits.
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