Who's In the Race

At a Sept. 23 Smyrna forum, Victoria Broderick criticized Rep. Scott DesJarlais for supporting the war in Iran, linking the conflict to higher gas and fertilizer prices, according to the Nashville Banner. DesJarlais did not attend. Broderick, a Democrat, faces DesJarlais (R-TN) and independents Jacob Kristopher Anders and Clay Faircloth in Tennessee's 4th Congressional District on Tuesday, Nov. 3. ​

DesJarlais, a physician, has represented the district since January 2011. Broderick, a logistics and technology professional, previously chaired the Lincoln County Democratic Party and serves on the state party's executive committee.

Broderick won the Aug. 6 Democratic primary with 37.9%, defeating four opponents, including runner-up Mike Cortese. DesJarlais won the Republican primary with 65.9%, defeating three challengers.

What They Stand For

DesJarlais supports expanding border security, including a border wall, additional agents, and deportations of noncitizens convicted of crimes. He advocates lower taxes, fewer regulations, and reduced federal involvement in health care, arguing that government and insurers interfere with the doctor-patient relationship. He also supports a strong national defense and expanded domestic energy production, including coal, hydroelectric power and renewables.

Broderick supports Medicare for All, a higher minimum wage, universal prekindergarten, and child care assistance, according to the Nashville Banner. She advocates closing corporate tax loopholes, eliminating subsidies for wealthy Americans, strengthening rural hospital access and increasing oversight of military spending. She also supports limiting government involvement in personal decisions and ending federal marijuana penalties.

The candidates differ on federal health care policy and the scope of government intervention, while Broderick has criticized DesJarlais' position on the Iran war.

The Money Behind the Race

Federal Election Commission filings show DesJarlais reported approximately $536,843 in receipts and $495,000 in cash on hand through July 17. Broderick reported $83,931 in receipts and approximately $8,600 in cash on hand through Sept. 30. Outside spending reportedly totaled $407 as of Oct. 8, all supporting DesJarlais through the Freedom Caucus Fund.

Race Outlook: Ratings and Betting Markets

The Cook Political Report, Sabato's Crystal Ball and Inside Elections rated the race Solid Republican as of Sept. 25, Sept. 29 and Oct. 2, respectively. On Kalshi, traders gave DesJarlais a 95.88% chance of winning as of Oct. 8, compared with 4.12% for Broderick.

DesJarlais won approximately 71% in 2022 and 70% in 2024. Republicans won eight of Tennessee's nine House seats in both elections. Donald Trump carried Tennessee with approximately 64% in 2024.

Voter registration closed Oct. 5. Early voting runs Oct. 14-29, with county-specific hours, according to the Tennessee secretary of state. Absentee-ballot requests must be received by Oct. 24, according to the state's absentee voting guide. Election Day polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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