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10h ago

Justin Pearson Launches Progressive Primary Challenge to Rep. Steve Cohen in Memphis

Pearson begins his bid with Justice Democrats’ backing alongside a $1 million pledge from Leaders We Deserve.

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FILE - Tennessee state lawmaker Rep. Justin Pearson, D-Memphis, speaks with reporters after meeting with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, April 24, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)
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FILE - Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., speaks during a House Judiciary Committee markup, on Capitol Hill, Dec. 12, 2019, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Overview

  • The Tennessee state representative announced a run against 10-term Democrat Steve Cohen in the deep-blue 9th District, where the primary is expected to decide the seat.
  • Leaders We Deserve, founded by David Hogg, committed $1 million to support Pearson, who also secured an endorsement from Justice Democrats.
  • Pearson centers his campaign on combating poverty and advancing Medicare for All, affordable housing, gun safety laws, labor rights and environmental justice.
  • Cohen, 76, says he will seek another term and expresses confidence in his standing, having historically won by large margins and reporting $1.8 million cash on hand in June.
  • Policy differences have surfaced, as Pearson criticizes Israel’s war conduct in Gaza and signals reluctance to back more U.S. military aid, while Cohen has supported Israel and left the Progressive Caucus over voting rules.