In a surprising turn, former Tennessee agriculture official Charlie Hatcher defeated Trump‑backed U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles in the District 5 Republican primary on Thursday—an unusual loss for an incumbent.

Ogles, who entered office in 2023, faced scandals including misrepresenting his resume and a personal loan that never appeared on his campaign finance reports. His public outbursts—from calling for the denaturalization of a mayor to controversial statements about Muslims—drew backlash across the aisle.

Hatcher’s campaign was buoyed by outside money, largely from a clean‑energy group, and endorsements from Governor Bill Lee and former Gov. Bill Haslam. Ogles struggled to raise funds despite Trump’s support, making Hatcher’s victory even more striking.

Hatcher will now face Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder, who won the Democratic primary, in the November 3 general election. The outcome will shape Tennessee’s political landscape.