"Pearson, a Memphis native, is collaborating with the national progressive groups Justice Democrats and Leaders We Deserve to help counter the advantages of incumbency and big-ticket fundraising that Cohen enjoys. "We're going to have to run our own race," Pearson told me. "And it's going to be a great people-powered campaign for justice. I'm not taking any corp money, and I know Cohen has millions in corporate donations. I believe in the power of people, and we're counting on the people to organize and galvanize"
"Pearson came to national prominence in 2023 as part of the " Tennessee Three"-a group of state lawmakers disciplined by the legislature for hosting protesters in the chamber demanding stricter gun-control measures in the wake of a Nashville school shooting. Still, as Pearson acknowledges, this will be a challenge. Cohen has served for two decades, cruised to reelection with 71 percent of the vote in 2024, and has more than $1.5 million in cash on hand."
Justin Pearson, a Memphis native and state representative, launched an underdog primary challenge against longtime incumbent Representative Steve Cohen in Tennessee's Ninth Congressional District. Pearson is partnering with national progressive groups Justice Democrats and Leaders We Deserve and is rejecting corporate donations in favor of a people-powered campaign focused on justice. Pearson rose to national attention in 2023 as part of the "Tennessee Three," lawmakers disciplined for hosting protesters demanding stricter gun-control after a Nashville school shooting. Cohen has served two decades, won 71 percent in 2024, and holds over $1.5 million cash on hand, creating a major incumbency advantage. Pearson and backers aim to mobilize progressive discontent with perceived Democratic complacency and low congressional approval to energize voters in the Memphis-centered district.
Read at The Nation
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