Brent Taylor announces Congress run after Republicans redraw Memphis-based Ninth District

Brent Taylor has announced a run for Congress following the approval of a new congressional map in Tennessee that reshapes the state’s only Democrat-led district.

According to CNN, Taylor revealed his campaign plans on social media shortly after Governor Bill Lee signed the redistricting bill into law following a special legislative session.

“We are at a defining moment in Tennessee’s history and an even more pivotal moment for the future of our country,” Taylor wrote.

“I’m running for Tennessee’s Ninth Congressional District to stand with President Trump and cement Tennessee’s conservative legacy for generations to come.”

The newly approved map divides Shelby County, which includes Memphis, into three Republican-leaning districts.

Republican lawmakers say the move is aimed at strengthening conservative representation in Washington.

Democrats strongly criticised the proposal during heated debates and protests at the state Capitol, arguing the map was designed to remove Tennessee’s only Democratic-held congressional seat.

The current Ninth District is represented by Steve Cohen, a Democrat who has held the seat for years.