Blackburn promotes coal, nuclear while Green vows to protect rivers, forest and farmland
Tennessee gubernatorial candidates Marsha Blackburn and her opponent hold contrasting views on energy policy, with Blackburn advocating for nuclear and coal expansion. The article highlights the environmental implications of these energy choices for the state's future.
Why it matters
Energy policy decisions at the state level significantly impact climate goals and economic development.
Tennessee’s next governor will have the power to help shape the policies and priorities for the state’s land, air, climate and water.
Governors can veto state legislation that favors highly polluting energy sources, challenge federal rollbacks on environmental regulations and direct state agencies to fund programs designed to improve air quality or reduce heat risks.
While the state is likely to elect its first female governor this fall, the two leading candidates represent vastly different perspectives on energy and environmental priorities.
Republican candidate and U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn has aligned her campaign with President Donald Trump’s agenda. The Trump administration has taken at least 570 actions that directly threaten the environment, climate and human health since January 2025.
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