{"campaigns":[{"candidatename":"Andy Ogles","chatgptsummary":"Ogles brings federal legislative experience as a U.S. Representative and local governance background as a former county mayor and CEO. His biography documents an investigation into 2022 campaign finance violations that concluded in May 2026 with the return of his phone. Bio does not indicate prior experience drafting complex federal statutes or building cross-party coalitions at the national level.","notes":null,"party":"R","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nAndy Ogles is a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing Tennessee's 5th Congressional District, having assumed office on January 3, 2023 [1]. His current term concludes on January 3, 2027 [1]. The district has been represented by Ogles since January 2023 and is rated as leaning Republican [7].\n\nOgles declared his candidacy for re-election to the U.S. House in the Republican primary scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1]. He has received the endorsement of President Donald Trump for the race [10]. Ogles self-describes as an entrepreneur and former mayor with a focus on limited government and lower taxes [5].\n\nIn May 2026, Ogles announced that his phone had been returned by federal authorities, signaling the end of an investigation into campaign finance violations related to his 2022 election [9]. The investigation stemmed from a report where he stated he loaned his campaign $320,000, which was later amended [9].\n\n## Background and education\n\nWilliam Andrew Ogles IV was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 18, 1971 [6]. He is a native of Middle Tennessee with family roots dating back to the state's founding [5][8]. Ogles attended Franklin High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Monica, whom he married in 1994 [6][11].\n\nOgles earned a bachelor's degree from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) [1]. While one source states he earned a degree in liberal studies [1], another indicates he studied economics and political science at MTSU before pursuing graduate work in marketing at Vanderbilt's Owen School of Management [8].\n\n## Career\n\nAndy Ogles is a Middle Tennessee native who self-describes as having deep roots dating back to the state's founding [5]. He attended Franklin High School and later earned a bachelor's degree in liberal studies from Middle Tennessee State University [1][6]. While some sources note he studied Economics and Political Science at MTSU and pursued graduate work in Marketing at Vanderbilt's Owen School of Management, his official biography highlights his undergraduate education [5][8].\n\nBefore entering public service, Ogles built a career as an entrepreneur. He owned and operated restaurants and worked in real estate investment [5][11]. He also served in the non-profit sector, specifically as the Chief Operating Officer of Abolition International, where he oversaw operations and investments [5]. During this time, he became nationally recognized as an expert on tax policy and healthcare, with his views featured in publications such as the Wall Street Journal and Investor's Business Daily [8].\n\nOgles served as the Mayor of Maury County from September 1, 2018, to August 30, 2022 [6]. In this role, he also functioned as the CEO of the county [8]. He succeeded Charlie Norman and was succeeded by Sheila Butt in the position [6].\n\n## Office history\n\nAndy Ogles served as the Mayor of Maury County from September 1, 2018, to August 30, 2022, succeeding Charlie Norman and preceding Sheila Butt [6]. Prior to his election to Congress, he was an entrepreneur in the restaurant industry and real estate investment, and later served as the Chief Operating Officer of Abolition International [5][8].\n\nOgles was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Tennessee's 5th Congressional District in 2022, assuming office on January 3, 2023 [1][6]. He won the Republican nomination with 35.4% of the vote in a crowded ten-candidate primary before defeating the Democratic nominee in the general election [2].\n\nHe was re-elected to a second term in 2024 after defeating challenger Courtney Johnston in the August 1, 2024, Republican primary with 56.5% of the vote [3][4]. Ogles is currently serving his second term, which ends on January 3, 2027 [1]. He has declared candidacy for re-election to the U.S. House in the Republican primary scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1].\n\n## Legislative record and accomplishments\n\nAndy Ogles has served as the U.S. Representative for Tennessee's 5th District since January 3, 2023 [1]. During his tenure, he has focused on legislative efforts related to border security, economic policy, and gun rights [10]. Ogles states that he introduced, cosponsored, and voted for legislation aimed at securing the southern border, stopping inflation, upholding the rule of law, and defending the Second Amendment [10].\n\nPrior to his election to Congress, Ogles served as the Mayor and CEO of Maury County from September 1, 2018, until August 30, 2022 [6]. He also previously worked as the Chief Operating Officer of Abolition International [5]. His professional background includes entrepreneurship in the restaurant industry and real estate investment, as well as graduate work in marketing at Vanderbilt's Owen School of Management [8].\n\nIn May 2026, Ogles announced that the federal government had returned his phone, signaling the end of an investigation into campaign finance violations related to his 2022 election [9]. The investigation stemmed from a discrepancy in a 2022 report where he stated he loaned his campaign $320,000, which he later amended [9]. Ogles secured the Republican nomination for the district in the August 1, 2024, primary, defeating Courtney Johnston with 56.5% of the vote [3]. He is currently seeking re-election in the 2026 Republican primary scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1].\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\nDuring his first term, Ogles faced public criticism regarding his conduct in Congress and his response to the Covenant School shooting [2]. This scrutiny contributed to a competitive Republican primary in 2024, where he defeated challenger Courtney Johnston with 56.5% of the vote [3]. A third candidate, Tom Guarente, initially filed to run but withdrew from the race, with reports indicating that Guarente believed a split ticket would facilitate an unseating of Ogles [2].\n\nIn the aftermath of his 2024 primary victory, Ogles' phone was seized by federal authorities as part of an investigation into campaign finance violations related to his 2022 election [9]. The investigation originated from a discrepancy in his 2022 campaign finance reports, where he initially stated he loaned his campaign $320,000 but later amended the filing nearly two years later [9]. In May 2026, Ogles announced the phone had been returned to him, signaling the end of the investigation [9]; the full Times Free Press account of how the investigation was resolved is behind a paywall and is not independently confirmed here.\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nOgles describes himself as having had a successful career as an entrepreneur in the restaurant industry and in real estate investment [5][11]. He previously served as the chief operating officer of Abolition International, a non-profit organization focused on anti-trafficking efforts, where he oversaw operations and investments [5]. Ogles also served as the mayor and CEO of Maury County from 2018 to 2022 [6][8].\n\nFinancial disclosure records indicate that Ogles has significant personal wealth. During his first election cycle in 2022, he reported loaning his campaign $320,000 [9]. He later amended this report to state that he had repaid the loan with interest, bringing the total amount repaid to approximately $400,000 [9]. Ogles resides on a small farm south of Columbia with his wife and three children [5][11].\n\n## Family\n\nAndy Ogles married his high school sweetheart, Monica, after graduating from Franklin High School [5]. The couple has three children: Adley, Drew, and Isaac [5]. As of 2026, the family resides on a small farm south of Columbia, Tennessee [5]. Ogles is also related to Brandon Ogles, who serves as a state representative [6].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Andy Ogles - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Andy_Ogles)\n[2] [Incumbent Andy Ogles (R) and Courtney Johnston (R) are running in the Republican primary in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2024/05/10/incumbent-andy-ogles-r-and-courtney-johnston-r-are-running-in-the-republican-primary-in-tennessees-5th-congressional-district/)\n[3] [Incumbent Andy Ogles (R) defeated Courtney Johnston (R) in the Republican primary in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District \u2013 Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2024/08/02/incumbent-andy-ogles-r-defeated-courtney-johnston-r-in-the-republican-primary-in-tennessees-5th-congressional-district/)\n[4] [Tennessee's 5th Congressional District election, 2024 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_5th_Congressional_District_election,_2024)\n[5] [About Andy | Representative Ogles - House.gov](https://ogles.house.gov/about-andy)\n[6] [Andy Ogles - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Ogles)\n[7] [Tennessee's 5th congressional district - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tennessee's_5th_congressional_district)\n[8] [Andy Ogles - CFG Foundation](https://clubforgrowthfoundation.org/fellow/andy-ogles/)\n[9] [Tennessee's Ogles says feds returned his phone, signaling end of investigation | Chattanooga Times Free Press](https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2026/may/06/tennessees-ogles-says-feds-returned-his-phone/) (article body is paywalled beyond the headline/summary; those confirm the phone's return and the investigation's end, not the destroyed-materials or administration-change specifics previously stated here)\n[10] [Andy Ogles for Congress](https://andyogles.com/)\n[11] [About - Andy Ogles](https://andyogles.com/about/)","firstname":"Andy","lastname":"Ogles","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"ClC7ytGELw"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Carrie Ann Iacomini","chatgptsummary":"Carrie Ann Iacomini resides in Memphis within Tennessee's 5th District and secured her Democratic primary nomination through petition signatures. The biography contains no verified details regarding her education, professional career, or prior elected office. Bio does not indicate legislative craft experience or oversight judgment experience.","notes":null,"party":"D","person":{"biography":"Carrie Ann Iacomini is a Democratic candidate for U.S. House in Tennessee\u2019s newly redrawn 5th Congressional District in the 2026 election [8]. The district stretches from Williamson County north to the Kentucky state line and west along the Arkansas state line to downtown Memphis [11]. Iacomini resides in Memphis [9]. She qualified for the August 6, 2026 Democratic primary by submitting petitions with at least 25 signatures from registered voters within the district [9]. Her opponents in the Democratic primary include Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, DeVante R. Hill, Rachel Hurley, and Chaz Molder [8]. The Republican primary for the same seat features incumbent Andy Ogles challenging former Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher [12].\n\nNo verified biographical details regarding her education, professional career, or prior elected office are available from reliable sources.\n\n## Sources\n\n[8] [August 2026 Primaries | Here are the candidates running in Tennessee's redrawn congressional districts | localmemphis.com](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/august-2026-primaries-here-are-the-candidates-running-in-tennessees-redrawn-congressional-districts/522-80897870-f7eb-4f36-86d9-0b27624c5505)\n[9] [Who\u2019s running where? Tennessee posts candidate list for redrawn congressional districts](https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/05/17/whos-running-where-tennessee-posts-candidate-list-redrawn-congressional-districts/)\n[11] [Tennessee's redrawn congressional districts: A full guide to every candidate running in 2026](https://www.newschannel5.com/news/tennessees-redrawn-congressional-districts-a-full-guide-to-every-candidate-running-in-2026)\n[12] [State lawmakers pitted against each other in 9th | Tennessee | thecentersquare.com](https://www.thecentersquare.com/tennessee/article_6e462b30-56b2-47d7-9784-ff2d9b8a8b38.html)\n","firstname":"Carrie Ann","lastname":"Iacomini","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"NV3plwnC8X"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Miche\u00e1l (Me-Haul) O'Leary","chatgptsummary":"O'Leary's biography shows prior executive leadership as a former mayor of Culver City and local business ownership in Nashville, relevant to constituent service and economic understanding. The record notes his criticism of an incumbent for polarizing activity but contains no documented controversies or disciplinary actions. Bio does not indicate experience drafting federal statute or building cross-party coalitions at the U.S. House level.","notes":null,"party":"I","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nMicheal O'Leary is a Republican candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District, seeking to qualify for the August 6, 2026 Republican primary against incumbent Andy Ogles [1][2]. O'Leary has criticized Ogles for what he characterizes as \"extreme and polarizing activity,\" including \"a complete lack of empathy after the Covenant shooting,\" along with objections to Ogles' positions on immigration enforcement and judicial accountability [2].\n\n## Background and career\nO'Leary is a native of Ireland who owns The Lost Paddy pub on Spence Lane in Nashville [2].\n\n## Office history\nBefore moving to Nashville, O'Leary was a public official in California, serving as mayor of Culver City in the Los Angeles area [2].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Tennessee's redrawn congressional districts: A full guide to every candidate running in 2026 \u2014 NewsChannel 5](https://www.newschannel5.com/news/tennessees-redrawn-congressional-districts-a-full-guide-to-every-candidate-running-in-2026) \u2014 accessed 2026-07-22\n[2] [An addition to Andy Ogles' challengers \u2014 Nashville Banner](https://nashvillebanner.com/2026/03/02/michael-oleary-tennessee-congressional-race-state-board-of-education/) \u2014 accessed 2026-07-22","firstname":"Miche\u00e1l (Me-Haul)","lastname":"O'Leary","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"jrVAdNtEfu"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"James A. Johnson","chatgptsummary":"The biography shows James Johnson is an independent candidate on the ballot for Tennessee's 5th District in the November 2026 general election. It notes he faces one other independent opponent and has not completed a survey or filed campaign finance reports. Bio does not indicate legislative craft experience or oversight judgment experience.","notes":null,"party":"I","person":{"biography":"James Johnson is an independent candidate running for election to the U.S. House of Representatives to represent Tennessee's 5th Congressional District [1]. He is listed on the ballot for the general election scheduled for November 3, 2026 [1]. The primary elections for this district are set for August 6, 2026 [1]. Johnson is one of two independent candidates in the general election, alongside Micheal O'Leary [1]. As of the available records, Johnson has not completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, and campaign finance information from the Federal Election Commission is not yet available [1].\n\n## Sources\n\n[1] [James Johnson (Tennessee congressional candidate)](https://ballotpedia.org/James_Johnson_(Tennessee_congressional_candidate))","firstname":"James A.","lastname":"Johnson","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"CNxRvWTi2o"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"DeVante R. Hill","chatgptsummary":"DeVante R. Hill's biography shows military service emphasizing logistics and decision-making under pressure, relevant to oversight judgment and constituent service. He discusses federal policy on healthcare, education, and infrastructure, indicating some understanding of district concerns. Bio does not indicate experience in drafting federal statute or building cross-party legislative coalitions.","notes":null,"party":"D","person":{"biography":"DeVante R. Hill is a Democratic candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in Tennessee\u2019s 5th Congressional District, running in the 2026 election cycle [1]. His primary election was scheduled for August 6, 2026, with the general midterm election set for November 3, 2026 [17].\n\nHill identifies as a military veteran with over ten years of service, a background he credits with teaching him the importance of logistics, coordination, and decision-making under pressure [17]. He applies this perspective to his campaign platform, arguing that government systems should operate with similar responsibility to prevent harm to citizens [17].\n\nHill\u2019s campaign focuses on three core policy areas: healthcare access, education reform, and logistical infrastructure [17]. On healthcare, he advocates for expanding affordable access, particularly in rural and underserved communities, improving care for veterans, reducing prescription drug costs, and strengthening community health infrastructure [17]. Regarding education, Hill emphasizes preparing students for the modern workforce through investment in teachers and support for vocational and technical training, aiming to ensure graduates possess skills that translate into economic opportunity [17]. On logistics, he argues for improved supply chains and transportation infrastructure to efficiently move people and resources [17].\n\nHill has also addressed social issues, specifically LGBTQIA rights, stating that the federal government should frame these issues as human rights conversations regarding dignity, safety, and equal protection rather than debates centered on sexuality [17]. He attributes his outlook partly to family influence, specifically crediting his grandmother for providing wisdom [17].\n\n## Sources\n\n[10] [DeVante R. Hill | BallotReady](https://www.ballotready.org/people/devante-r-hill)\n[17] [SHEEN Magazine Devante Hill: A Veteran\u2019s Vision for Congress - SHEEN Magazine](https://www.sheenmagazine.com/devante-hill-a-veterans-vision-for-congress/)","firstname":"DeVante R.","lastname":"Hill","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"xbI1VWeTyu"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Rachel Hurley","chatgptsummary":"Rachel Hurley's biography shows thirty years of project management and public relations work, alongside community organizing that engaged 13,000 residents. Her background includes writing for local media and launching digital platforms, demonstrating communication skills relevant to constituent service. The record contains no documented controversies or disciplinary actions. Bio does not indicate federal legislative drafting experience or oversight judgment of the executive branch.","notes":null,"party":"D","person":{"biography":"Rachel Hurley is a Democrat running for U.S. House in Tennessee\u2019s newly redrawn District 5 in the 2026 election [11]. She describes herself as a \"disruptor\" challenging the political status quo, citing high incumbent reelection rates and arguing that term limits require incumbents to vote on their own removal [8]. Hurley states she filed to run in the newly configured district after Republicans redrew Tennessee\u2019s maps to shift power, aiming to address issues such as healthcare, wages, and housing which she claims have not moved forward [9].\n\nHurley characterizes her career as spanning thirty years of building projects \"from nothing\" without waiting for permission [9]. Her professional background includes roles at major corporations like MTV and the independent music venue Ardent Studios in Memphis [9]. She began her public writing career in 2003 with a blog called Rachelandthecity, which won the Memphis Flyer\u2019s Best Blog award three consecutive years, and she wrote a music column for the Commercial Appeal [9]. Hurley also helped launch a record label, ran publicity for the band Big Star, and started two podcasts that reached hundreds of thousands of listeners [9]. She has spoken on panels at SXSW, CMJ, and AmericanaFest [9].\n\nIn 2013, Hurley built MakeMemphis.com, a platform allowing residents to pitch ideas to improve the city, which she organized around with 13,000 people [9]. In 2019, she started her own public relations agency, noting that she did not chase clients for six years as all business came by referral [9].\n\nHurley states that living two blocks from the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, profoundly impacted her perspective [9]. Since 2021, she has lived in a travel trailer after selling her possessions and trading her Prius for a pickup truck [9]. She plans to campaign across all 17 counties of District 5 by traveling on the road and meeting voters in person [9]. Her campaign materials indicate that her policy positions are detailed on her homepage and her writing is published on Substack [9].\n\nThe Democratic primary field for Tennessee\u2019s 5th District includes Yolanda Cooper-Sutton, DeVante R. Hill, Carrie Ann Iacomini, and Chaz Molder [11]. The district now divides Shelby County among Districts 5, 8, and 9 following redistricting [11].\n\n## Sources\n\n[8] [Rachel Hurley for Tennessee's 5th District](https://rachelfortn.com/)\n[9] [About | Rachel Hurley for Tennessee\u2019s 5th District](https://www.rachelfortn.com/about.html)\n[11] [August 2026 Primaries | Here are the candidates running in Tennessee's redrawn congressional districts | localmemphis.com](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/august-2026-primaries-here-are-the-candidates-running-in-tennessees-redrawn-congressional-districts/522-80897870-f7eb-4f36-86d9-0b27624c5505)","firstname":"Rachel","lastname":"Hurley","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"EcURqCabAP"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Chaz Molder","chatgptsummary":"Chaz Molder's biography shows experience in local legislative craft through seven balanced budgets and constituent service as Columbia Mayor since 2018. He demonstrates coalition-building by winning re-election in a heavily Republican county while maintaining bipartisan progress on local issues. The record documents no disciplinary actions or controversies beyond standard campaign rhetoric against an incumbent. Bio does not indicate federal legislative experience or oversight judgment of the executive branch.","notes":null,"party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nChaz Molder currently serves as the Mayor of Columbia, Tennessee, a position he first won in 2018 and was re-elected to in 2022 [2][4]. He is running for election to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District [1][3]. Molder officially launched his campaign on September 4, 2025, at Hattie Jane\u2019s Creamery in Columbia, aiming to unseat Republican incumbent U.S. Representative Andy Ogles [7][9][11].\n\nThe Democratic Party has identified Molder as a priority candidate for the race, providing him with organizational and fundraising support through the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee [13]. In February 2026, reports indicated that Molder held a significant financial advantage over other candidates in the district, including the incumbent [6]. By April 17, 2026, Molder announced a fundraising total of $1.81 million since the start of his campaign, which included a $601,000 haul for the first quarter of 2026 [3][14].\n\nMolder is scheduled to appear on the Democratic primary ballot on August 6, 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026 [1]. He self-describes his campaign as leveraging his experience as a mayor who has passed seven balanced budgets without property tax increases while investing in education and public safety [4][5]. Molder states that his mayoral tenure provides a \"front-row perspective\" to community challenges, contrasting his approach with Ogles' record [7][9].\n\n## Background and education\n\nChaz Molder was born and raised in Columbia, Tennessee [2]. He is a product of Columbia\u2019s public schools [5]. Molder attended the University of Tennessee for his undergraduate studies and later graduated from the University of Memphis College of Law [2].\n\n## Career\n\nChaz Molder is a graduate of Columbia\u2019s public schools and holds degrees from the University of Tennessee and the University of Memphis law school [2][5]. He returned to Columbia in 2009 to practice law and raise his family [2]. As an attorney, he has built a reputation for community engagement prior to his entry into elected office [5].\n\nMolder was elected Mayor of Columbia in 2018, becoming the youngest mayor in Tennessee at the time and the youngest in the city\u2019s history [2][4][5]. He secured re-election in 2022 by wide margins against the local chair of the Maury County Republican Party [4][5]. During his tenure as mayor, which he holds until December 31, 2026, Molder has passed seven consecutive balanced budgets without increasing property taxes while investing in education and public safety [4][5][10]. He self-describes his mayoral approach as focusing on bipartisan progress and local issues [4][7].\n\n## Office history\n\nChaz Molder was elected Mayor of Columbia in 2018, becoming the youngest mayor in Tennessee at the time and the youngest in the city's history.[2][4] He served a four-year term, during which he passed seven balanced budgets without increasing property taxes and invested in education and public safety.[4][5] Molder was re-elected to a second term in 2022, defeating the local chair of the Maury County Republican Party by a wide margin in a county that supported Donald Trump by over 45 points.[2][4] As of May 2026, he continues to hold the office of Columbia City Mayor until December 31, 2026.[10]\n\nMolder announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for U.S. House in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District on September 4, 2025, challenging incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles.[7][9][11][12] The primary election is scheduled for August 6, 2026, and the general election is set for November 3, 2026.[1] National Democrats have identified Molder as a priority candidate in this race.[13]\n\n## Legislative record and accomplishments\n\nAs Mayor of Columbia, Molder has overseen the passage of seven consecutive balanced budgets without increasing property taxes [4][5]. His legislative record as mayor includes investments in education and public safety, as well as efforts to save local landmarks or infrastructure, which he describes as part of his focus on bipartisan progress through local issues [4][5].\n\nMolder has not held federal office prior to his 2026 campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives, so there is no federal legislative record, committee assignments, or congressional voting history to report. He self-describes his mayoral experience as providing a \"front-row perspective to the needs and challenges our communities face,\" contrasting this with incumbent U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles [7][9].\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\nMolder launched his campaign for the Democratic nomination in Tennessee\u2019s 5th Congressional District on September 4, 2025, explicitly targeting incumbent U.S. Representative Andy Ogles [9][11]. During the announcement event at Hattie Jane\u2019s Creamery, Molder criticized Ogles\u2019 connection to the district, stating that the congressman had \"forgotten who sent him there\" and appeared more interested in partisan politics than constituent service [7][9]. The Nashville Banner characterized the race as a bid to unseat the \"controversial Republican\" [9].\n\nThe two candidates share a prior political rivalry from their time as mayors of linked communities; both were first elected to their respective mayoral offices in 2018, with Molder serving Columbia and Ogles serving Maury County [9]. Molder\u2019s entry into the race was preceded by weeks of speculation, during which he confirmed he was \"strongly considering\" a run as a Democrat [8]. National Democrats subsequently identified Molder as a priority candidate for the seat, providing organizational and fundraising support through the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee [13].\n\nMolder has drawn national attention in the race due to his financial resources. By April 17, 2026, he had raised $1.81 million over seven months, including a $601,000 haul in the first quarter of 2026 [3][14]. This total made him the leading Democratic fundraiser in the 5th, 6th, and 7th Districts since 2016, excluding Rep. Aftyn Behn\u2019s special election funds [14]. The Tennessee Lookout reported that Molder held a \"whopping financial advantage\" over other candidates in the district, including incumbent Ogles [6].\n\nMolder has framed his campaign around his record as Columbia\u2019s mayor, self-describing as a candidate who can help fix a \"broken Congress\" by applying local governance experience to federal issues [4]. He cites passing seven balanced budgets without property tax increases and investing in education and public safety as key achievements during his tenure [5]. Molder states that his mayoral role provides a \"front-row perspective\" on community challenges, contrasting this with his view of Ogles\u2019 congressional record [7][9].\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nChaz Molder is an attorney who returned to Columbia in 2009 to practice law and pursue a political career [2]. He self-describes his professional background as rooted in this legal practice alongside his public service roles [2]. Prior to his congressional campaign, Molder served as the Mayor of Columbia from 2018 through at least December 31, 2026 [10]. As mayor, he passed seven balanced budgets without increasing property taxes while investing in education and public safety [5].\n\nMolder holds a significant financial advantage in his bid for Tennessee\u2019s 5th Congressional District. He announced a fundraising haul of $601,000 for the first quarter of 2026, bringing his seven-month total to $1.81 million [14]. This amount is the highest raised by any candidate in Tennessee\u2019s 5th, 6th, or 7th Congressional Districts since 2016, excluding Rep. Aftyn Behn\u2019s special election fundraising [14]. Molder\u2019s war chest exceeds that of other candidates in the race, including incumbent U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles [6].\n\nMolder is a product of Columbia\u2019s public schools and holds degrees from the University of Tennessee and the University of Memphis law school [2]. He lives in the 5th Congressional District and has stated that his background as a mayor provides him with a \"front-row perspective\" on community challenges [9]. His campaign events have included appearances at local businesses such as Hattie Jane\u2019s Creamery, emphasizing his connection to the area\u2019s thriving public square [11].\n\n## Family\n\nMolder\u2019s father-in-law is longtime Democratic state Representative Craig Fitzhugh [7]. Molder states that he returned to Columbia in 2009 with the goal of \"raising a family,\" though specific details regarding his spouse or children are not provided in available sources [2].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Chaz Molder - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Chaz_Molder)\n[2] [About the Mayor | Columbia, TN](https://www.columbiatn.gov/771/About-the-Mayor)\n[3] [Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder is a Democrat challenging ...](https://www.facebook.com/tennessean/posts/columbia-mayor-chaz-molder-is-a-democrat-challenging-republican-incumbent-us-rep/1353720093458162/)\n[4] [Chaz Molder for Congress](https://chazmolder.com/)\n[5] [Meet Chaz - Chaz Molder for Congress](https://chazmolder.com/meet-chaz/)\n[6] [Columbia Mayor Molder holds financial advantage in 5th District race \u2022 Tennessee Lookout](https://tennesseelookout.com/2026/02/04/columbia-mayor-molder-holds-financial-advantage-in-5th-district-race/)\n[7] [Chaz Molder Announces Run for 5th Congressional District | Pith in the Wind | Nashville News | nashvillescene.com](https://www.nashvillescene.com/news/pithinthewind/chaz-molder-5th-congressional-district/article_5c3fbb6d-f9a5-4cdb-9669-709a3202790b.html)\n[8] [Columbia mayor weighs run as Democrat in 5th Congressional District \u2022 Tennessee Lookout](https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/07/22/columbia-mayor-weighs-run-as-democrat-in-5th-congressional-district/)\n[9] [Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder challenges Rep. Andy Ogles - Nashville Banner](https://nashvillebanner.com/2025/09/05/chaz-molder-campaign-against-andy-ogles/)\n[10] [Chaz Molder | BallotReady](https://www.ballotready.org/people/chaz-molder)\n[11] [Columbia Mayor Molder announces run for Rep. Ogles' seat - Axios Nashville](https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2025/09/04/columbia-mayor-molder-announces-run-for-rep-ogles-seat)\n[12] [Columbia mayor joins District 5 congressional race](https://www.wsmv.com/2025/09/04/columbia-mayor-joins-district-5-congressional-race/)\n[13] [National Democrats name Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder a priority candidate - Axios Nashville](https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/02/23/national-democrats-name-columbia-mayor-chaz-molder-a-priority-candidate)\n[14] [News - Chaz Molder for Congress](https://chazmolder.com/news/)","firstname":"Chaz","lastname":"Molder","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"qpq8lHnD1t"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Charlie Hatcher","chatgptsummary":"Charlie Hatcher's biography shows executive leadership as Tennessee's Commissioner of Agriculture and State Veterinarian, demonstrating capacity for constituent service and oversight of state resources. He has no documented disciplinary record or legal controversies. Bio does not indicate experience drafting federal statute or building cross-party coalitions in the U.S. House.","notes":null,"party":"R","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nCharlie Hatcher is a Republican candidate running for election to the U.S. House of Representatives in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District [1]. He declared his candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled on August 6, 2026 [1]. The incumbent representative for the district is Andy Ogles, whom Hatcher plans to challenge [3].\n\nHatcher previously served as the Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture from January 1, 2019, until September 30, 2025 [1]. He was appointed to the role by Governor Bill Lee and had previously served as the state veterinarian for ten years [11]. Hatcher retired from the commissioner position in late 2025, with Deputy Commissioner Andy Holt succeeding him on October 1 [12].\n\nHatcher officially launched his congressional campaign with a fundraiser at Battle Mountain Farm in College Grove, Tennessee [13]. The event drew several hundred supporters and marked the beginning of his bid for the seat [14]. Hatcher, who is a fifth-generation Tennessee dairy farmer and veterinarian, has stated that he supports President Donald Trump but believes Washington needs a farmer's \"work-hard mentality\" to address national issues effectively [3]. He described politics as \"the nastiest thing I've ever done\" while emphasizing his reliance on his experience in government service [14].\n\n## Background and education\n\nCharlie Hatcher is a fifth-generation Tennessee dairy farmer who lives on land his family has worked for over 200 years [6]. He describes himself as a tenth-generation American farmer and states that his childhood was deeply influenced by time spent with his grandfather, Colonel George Hatcher MD, on the family farm in the Arno/College Grove area [4]. Hatcher identifies as a Christian family man [7].\n\nHatcher is an alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University [8]. He earned his veterinary degree from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 1984 [5].\n\n## Career\n\nDr. Charlie Hatcher is a tenth-generation American farmer and fifth-generation Tennessee dairy farmer who has worked on land his family has cultivated for over 200 years [4]. He self-describes as having started eight successful businesses from scratch, including the Hatcher Family Dairy and Rock-N-Country Veterinary Clinic [6]. His daughter and son currently operate a veterinary office and the Hatcher Family Dairy in the College Grove area [10].\n\nHatcher graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 1984 [5]. He served as the State Veterinarian for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture for ten years, beginning in 2009, where he was responsible for protecting animal health and promoting the marketability of animal products [8]. During his tenure as state veterinarian, he held national leadership roles, including serving as past President of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners [1].\n\nIn December 2018, Governor-elect Bill Lee announced Hatcher\u2019s selection to serve as Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture [2]. He was sworn in as Tennessee\u2019s 38th Commissioner of Agriculture on January 19, 2019 [11]. In this cabinet position, he served until his retirement was announced in September 2025, with Deputy Commissioner Andy Holt succeeding him on October 1, 2025 [12].\n\nHatcher received the 2020 Alumni Award from Gamma Sigma Delta, the International Honor Society of Agriculture, recognizing his contributions as a Distinguished Alumnus of the University of Tennessee [5]. He is also an author and has held various leadership positions within agricultural organizations throughout his career [1].\n\n## Office history\n\nDr. Charlie Hatcher served as the 38th Commissioner of Agriculture for Tennessee from January 1, 2019, to September 30, 2025 [1]. He was appointed to the position by Governor Bill Lee and assumed office in early 2019 [2][8][11]. In this cabinet role, Hatcher led the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, overseeing the state's agricultural and forestry resources [2][9]. Prior to his appointment as commissioner, he served for ten years as the State Veterinarian for the department [11]. He left the office in September 2025, with Deputy Commissioner Andy Holt succeeding him on October 1, 2025 [12].\n\nHatcher is currently a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District [1]. He declared his candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled for August 6, 2026, to challenge incumbent Representative Andy Ogles [1][3][10]. Hatcher officially launched his campaign with a fundraiser at his family's Battle Mountain Farm in College Grove [13][14]. As of May 2026, the primary election has not yet occurred, and its outcome is unknown [1].\n\n## Legislative record and accomplishments\n\nAs a state official rather than a member of Congress, Charlie Hatcher did not sponsor federal legislation or hold congressional committee assignments during his tenure as Tennessee\u2019s Commissioner of Agriculture [1]. His legislative influence was exercised at the state level through his role in the executive branch, where he worked to advance policies supporting rural resources and agricultural priorities under Governor Bill Lee\u2019s administration [2].\n\nHatcher\u2019s policy positions for his 2026 U.S. House campaign emphasize a \"work-hard mentality\" derived from his background as a fifth-generation Tennessee dairy farmer and former state veterinarian [3]. He self-describes as pro-gun, pro-life, and pro-Trump, stating that while he supports President Donald Trump, the administration needs assistance from a farmer\u2019s perspective to address issues in Washington, D.C. [7]. Hatcher argues that rural interests are critical to all Tennesseans and seeks to bring his experience in managing the state\u2019s agricultural sector to the federal level [2].\n\nPrior to his 2026 congressional bid, Hatcher served as the 38th Commissioner of Agriculture from January 1, 2019, until his retirement on September 30, 2025 [1]. In this capacity, he was responsible for protecting animal health and promoting the marketability of agricultural products, having previously served as the State Veterinarian for ten years [11]. He left the cabinet role to challenge incumbent U.S. Representative Andy Ogles in the Republican primary for Tennessee\u2019s 5th Congressional District [10].\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\nCharlie Hatcher has announced a candidacy to challenge incumbent U.S. Representative Andy Ogles in the 2026 Republican primary for Tennessee's 5th Congressional District [1][3][10]. The race was confirmed by GOP sources and reported by local media outlets, with Hatcher launching his campaign at Battle Mountain Farm in College Grove [10][13][14]. Hatcher has described politics as \"the nastiest thing I've ever done\" while noting he has been approached about running for office multiple times previously [14].\n\nHatcher served as the Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture from January 1, 2019, until his retirement on September 30, 2025 [1][12]. He was appointed to the role by Governor Bill Lee after being announced as a cabinet pick at the Tennessee Farm Bureau Annual Convention in December 2018 [2][8][9]. During his tenure, Hatcher focused on agricultural policy and rural resources, drawing on his background as a veterinarian and fifth-generation farmer [2][11]. He left the position to pursue his congressional campaign, with Deputy Commissioner Andy Holt succeeding him in October 2025 [12].\n\nThere are no documented ethics complaints, legal actions, or withdrawn endorsements involving Charlie Hatcher in the provided sources. The available records focus on his professional background in veterinary medicine and agriculture, his appointment to the state cabinet, and his current political campaign activities [1][4][5][6][7][11].\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nCharlie Hatcher is a fifth-generation Tennessee dairy farmer who self-describes as living on land his family has worked for over 200 years [6][7]. He identifies as a tenth-generation farmer and states that his agricultural legacy was influenced by time spent with his grandfather, Colonel George Hatcher MD, on the family farm in the Arno/College Grove area [4]. The Hatcher family owns Battle Mountain Farm, which served as the site for Hatcher\u2019s campaign launch event [13][14].\n\nHatcher is a licensed livestock veterinarian who founded Rock-N-Country Veterinary Clinic and started eight successful businesses from scratch, including the Hatcher Family Dairy [6][7][11]. He previously served as the State Veterinarian of Tennessee for ten years before being appointed Commissioner of Agriculture by Governor Bill Lee in 2019 [1][2][11]. In that role, he protected animal health and promoted the marketability of animal products across the state [11].\n\nRegarding family business operations, Hatcher\u2019s daughter runs a veterinary office and his son operates the Hatcher Family Dairy, both located in the College Grove area [10]. Hatcher left the position of Agriculture Commissioner on September 30, 2025, to focus on his congressional campaign [1][12]. He has not disclosed specific details regarding personal wealth accumulation or sales of businesses beyond noting his role as a founder of multiple enterprises and current family ownership of agricultural operations [6][7].\n\n## Family\n\nHatcher is a tenth-generation farmer whose family has worked land in the Arno and College Grove, Tennessee, area for over 200 years [4][7]. His childhood was influenced by his grandfather, Colonel George Hatcher MD, on the family farm [4]. He self-describes as a Christian family man [6][7].\n\nTwo of Hatcher\u2019s children are involved in family businesses located in the College Grove area: his daughter runs a veterinary office and his son operates the Hatcher Family Dairy [10].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Charlie Hatcher - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Charlie_Hatcher)\n[2] [Governor-Elect Bill Lee Announces Dr. Charlie Hatcher to Lead the Tennessee Department of Agriculture](https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2018/12/3/governor-elect-bill-lee-announces-dr--charlie-hatcher-to-lead-the-tennessee-department-of-agriculture.html)\n[3] [Charlie Hatcher announces candidacy for Congress | Communities | williamsonherald.com](https://www.williamsonherald.com/communities/charlie-hatcher-announces-candidacy-for-congress/article_3ce2548a-4183-42cd-822b-33a038f1e9ea.html)\n[4] [Charlie Hatcher | Outstanding in Their Field](https://utia.tennessee.edu/spotlights/charlie-hatcher/)\n[5] [Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Honored by UT Honor Society | Institute News](https://utianews.tennessee.edu/tennessee-commissioner-of-agriculture-honored-by-ut-honor-society/)\n[6] [Charlie Hatcher - Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce](https://lebanonwilsonchamber.com/business-directory/charlie-hatcher/)\n[7] [Charlie Hatcher \u2013 Pro-Gun. Pro-Life. Pro-Trump. Farm Strong.](https://charliehatcher.com/)\n[8] [MTSU alumnus Hatcher hand-picked as Tennessee\u2019s next agriculture commissioner](https://mtsunews.com/alumnus-hatcher-new-agriculture-commissioner/)\n[9] [Governor-Elect Bill Lee Announces Dr. Charlie Hatcher to Lead the Tennessee Department of Agriculture](https://tennesseewines.com/governor-elect-bill-lee-announces-dr-charlie-hatcher-to-lead-the-tennessee-department-of-agriculture/)\n[10] [Charlie Hatcher to challenge Andy Ogles in 2026 primary - Nashville Banner](https://nashvillebanner.com/2025/10/14/charlie-hatcher-andy-ogles-2026-republican-primary/)\n[11] [Dr. Charlie Hatcher, Tennessee\u2019s Commissioner of Agriculture | Econ Club of Nashville](https://econclubnashville.org/events-test/dr-charlie-hatcher-tennessees-commissioner-of-agriculture/)\n[12] [TN Agriculture Department Commissioner Charlie Hatcher to retire; Andy Holt will fill role \u2022 Tennessee Lookout](https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/09/03/tn-agriculture-department-commissioner-charlie-hatcher-to-retire-andy-holt-will-fill-role/)\n[13] [Charlie Hatcher launches campaign for Congressional District 5 with fundraiser at Battle Mountain Farm | Local News | williamsonherald.com](https://www.williamsonherald.com/news/local_news/charlie-hatcher-launches-campaign-for-congressional-district-5-with-fundraiser-at-battle-mountain-farm/article_d578b213-242f-48d8-87ea-2dfe266a9daa.html)\n[14] [Charlie Hatcher Launches 5th Congressional District Campaign | News | williamsonscene.com](https://www.williamsonscene.com/news/charlie-hatcher-launches-5th-congressional-district-campaign/article_427f73f8-1437-4f56-bed0-544b2d1dae13.html)","firstname":"Charlie","lastname":"Hatcher","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"tReGpTxMtx"},"token":null},{"candidatename":"Yolanda Cooper-Sutton","chatgptsummary":"Yolanda Cooper-Sutton's biography shows long-term residency in the district and extensive community service, suggesting familiarity with local concerns and constituent needs. Her background as a health care advocate and notary public indicates some capacity for administrative detail. The record contains no documented controversies or disciplinary actions. Bio does not indicate experience drafting federal legislation or building cross-party coalitions at the congressional level.","notes":null,"party":"D","person":{"biography":"[https://www.cooper-sutton.com/](https://www.cooper-sutton.com/)\n\nWhitehaven community leader Yolanda Cooper-Sutton is passionate about a variety of political issues including Juvenile Crime, Building within the Community. Yolanda has proven herself to be a hard worker and an effective leader for her community.\n\nMemphis Resident for 26 years\n\nMarried for 27 years\n\n* Riley Business College in Dothan, Alabama\n* Certified as a Health Care Advocate\n* Employed in Community Health Care\n* 18 Years Notary Public Memphis, Tennessee\n* Community Activist and Volunteer for Union Mission Homeless Shelter and After School Program for Tillman Community Center\n* Active Member of Church of God in Christ \u2013 Messiah Fellowship\n* Member of the following organizations: Junior League and Friends of the Memphis Public Library\n* Hobbies are tennis, golf, reading and spending time with my family\n","firstname":"Yolanda","lastname":"Cooper-Sutton","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"d5uGgEIwdc"},"token":null}],"choices":null,"description":null,"district":null,"districtgroup":null,"districtgroupname":null,"districtname":null,"job_type":"us_representative","o.office":null,"office":"us_house_5","officedescription":"A United States Representative represents a single congressional district in the lower chamber of Congress, serving a two-year term. Representatives write and pass federal law, originate revenue bills, fund and oversee the executive branch, and serve constituents in dealings with federal agencies.","officequalities":"- Legislative craft at the federal level: reading, drafting, and amending federal statute, and knowing the law being changed.\n- Understanding of the district's economic and everyday concerns, and constituent-service capacity for casework with federal agencies.\n- Persuasion and coalition-building across party and factional lines to form working majorities.\n- Integrity: acting for constituents and the public good rather than personal gain, independent of undue influence.\n- Oversight judgment: the House funds and oversees the executive branch and the military.","officeterm":2,"officetitle":"U.S. Representative","partisan":1,"pgr":"primary","quantity":1,"referendum":null,"source":{"retrieved_at":"2026-06-01","title":"TN SoS \u2014 Candidates for United States House of Representatives (2026)","url":"https://sos-prod.tnsosgovfiles.com/s3fs-public/document/USHouseCandidates_2026.pdf"},"title":"US House District 5"}