Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has endorsed Charlie Hatcher, a former state agriculture commissioner, in his bid to unseat Republican Congressman Andy Ogles in an upcoming US House primary. The move is notable because Ogles has already secured the backing of President Donald Trump, putting Lee's endorsement at odds with the president's choice and highlighting a split within Tennessee's Republican establishment ahead of the contest.

Lee explained his decision by pointing to a long personal friendship with Hatcher, who served as his agriculture commissioner for seven years, describing him as a trusted figure with strong conservative values. Lee also argued that Hatcher has been a consistent supporter of Trump, seeking to counter the perception that backing him means opposing the president. The endorsement adds a fresh dynamic to the primary race, which is being closely watched as part of the broader 2026 midterm cycle.