Wrestler Glenn Jacobs Leads Field for Tennessee Senate Seat as Hegseth Ruled Out

Key points

• Glenn Jacobs, a former WWE wrestler known as Kane and two-term mayor of Knox County, is the frontrunner to replace Sen. Marsha Blackburn in the U.S. Senate.
• Blackburn, who will be sworn in as governor on Jan. 16, 2026, has narrowed her shortlist to four candidates: Jacobs, Rep. Tim Burchett, Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, and Deputy Gov. Stuart McWhorter.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is not under consideration for the appointment, despite earlier speculation. A source close to Blackburn called the idea 'baseless speculation,' and the White House confirmed Trump wants Hegseth to remain at the Pentagon.
• Jacobs shares a top consultant, Ward Baker, with Blackburn and has campaigned closely with her. He is described as libertarian-leaning and a close ally of former congressman Ron Paul.
• Rep. Tim Burchett has openly vied for the seat, citing a poll showing a double-digit lead over rivals. However, his independent voting record, including voting to oust former Speaker Kevin McCarthy in 2023, may make him less appealing to Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
• The appointed successor will serve until 2028, when a special election will be held. The incumbent would have a significant advantage in that race.

Background

This story follows earlier coverage from our archive confirming that Glenn Jacobs emerged as the favorite for the Tennessee Senate seat and that Pete Hegseth was ruled out of contention. The current developments provide a confirmed shortlist from Blackburn’s inner circle and clarify the status of other rumored candidates.

How outlets are covering it

Mediaite and The Washington Sun emphasize Glenn Jacobs as the clear frontrunner, citing his close relationship with Blackburn and his unique appeal to both establishment and working-class voters. The Nashville Banner provides a detailed breakdown of the final four candidates, noting that Jacobs was the only rumored pick on the 'American Dream' campaign bus and joined Blackburn on stage for her victory speech. The Washington Post focuses on the definitive rejection of Pete Hegseth as a candidate, highlighting the White House’s stance and the political obstacles Hegseth would face. NOTUS adds context on Burchett’s independent streak and the potential friction with Senate leadership, while also noting Hegseth’s potential impeachment threats. All sources agree that the decision rests solely with Blackburn, and that national figures like Trump and Hegseth are not influencing the appointment.

Why it matters

The appointment of a successor to a U.S. Senate seat is a significant political decision, especially in a swing state like Tennessee. The choice could influence the balance of power in the Senate and the outcome of the 2028 special election. The involvement of a former professional wrestler highlights the growing influence of celebrity and non-traditional political figures in American politics. The rejection of Pete Hegseth underscores the tension between the White House and state-level political leaders, as well as the potential for impeachment proceedings to impact political appointments.

What to watch

Blackburn is expected to announce her choice for the Senate appointment in the coming weeks, before her inauguration as governor on Jan. 16, 2026. The appointed successor will serve until 2028, when a special election will be held. The Democratic majority in the House is expected to pursue impeachment proceedings against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which could further impact his political future. The 2028 special election will be a key test of the appointed successor’s viability as a candidate.