A gubernatorial forum was held on October 27, 2026, at Middle Tennessee State University, featuring three of the four major Tennessee gubernatorial candidates. Democratic nominee Jerri Green, a member of the Memphis City Council, and independent candidates David Hatley and Lauren Pinkston participated in the event. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, the Republican nominee and presumptive frontrunner, did not respond to multiple invitations.
The forum was sponsored by the Tennessee Press Association and Middle Tennessee State University, and it was the first gubernatorial forum since 2018. Tennessee Lookout photojournalist John Partipilo and Ephraim Rodenbach with MTSU Seigenthaler News Service captured the event in photos.
Students from the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment gained practical experience running the forum. Moderators Ken Paulson, director of the Free Speech Center at MTSU, and Otis Sanford, professor emeritus, University of Memphis, finalized their notes before the event began.
Independent candidate Lauren Pinkston, along with her husband Gavin and campaign staff members, prayed backstage before the forum started. During the event, Lauren Pinkston turned to David Hatley, and MTSU junior journalism student Jaeda Jackson asked an affordability question.
Independent candidate David Hatley answered a question during the forum. Democratic candidate Jerri Green was present at the event, and after the forum concluded, Middle Tennessee State University student technicians joined the candidates on stage. Forum moderator Ken Paulson and Jerri Green shared a few words, and Deb Hatley hugged her husband after the forum wrapped up.
Democratic candidate Jerri Green answered questions in a post-forum press conference.
