Republican Congressman Andy Ogles lost his primary race in Tennessee's 5th congressional district Thursday, becoming the second candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump to be defeated this week. Former Tennessee agricultural commissioner Charlie Hatcher secured the Republican nomination, setting up a November contest for the seat.
Trump had issued a "complete and total endorsement" for Ogles' re-election just hours before polls closed, according to a Truth Social post. Trump described Ogles as a "Conservative Warrior" with "strong support from his Community."
After Ogles lost, Trump offered a different assessment. On Friday, he said on Truth Social that he had remained loyal to Ogles "even though he had virtually no chance of winning" and was running against "a Great 'Trump' Candidate." Trump then threw his support behind Hatcher.
Ogles, who has represented the 5th district since 2023, faced several controversies during his two terms. He was investigated for alleged campaign finance violations, though he was not charged and denied any wrongdoing.
He also drew criticism for anti-Muslim comments, including posts on X where he said Muslims "don't belong in American society" and that "America and Islam are incompatible."
Ogles' loss follows another defeat for a Trump-backed candidate earlier in the week. In Michigan, Amir Hassan lost a House primary to Tom Smith, who had suspended his campaign in July and endorsed another candidate.
Despite the two setbacks, Trump's endorsement remains a sought-after asset in Republican primaries. He claimed an 8-1 endorsement record this week, counting Ogles as his single loss.
Trump saw several wins for his preferred candidates in other races. John James won Michigan's Republican nomination for governor despite being significantly outspent. Trump campaigned with James, appearing on stage with him last week.
Republicans in Kansas also selected Trump's choice for governor. In a Washington state House race, Amanda McKinney, the president's pick, finished first.
This year's primary season has seen an unusually high number of incumbent lawmakers fail to secure their party's renomination. Six Democrats and three Republicans have been defeated across the country.
According to data from Vital Statistics on Congress, this marks the highest number of incumbent losses in a non-redistricting election cycle since 1970.
Hatcher will advance to the November general election, where he is expected to face Columbia mayor Chaz Molder, who won the Democratic primary for Tennessee's 5th district.
All 435 House seats and 35 of the 100 Senate seats are up for election in November, with control of Congress at stake.
