Democratic Caucus Chair Mike Stewart Fends Off Primary Challenge

State Rep. Mike Stewart (D-Nashville) successfully beat back a Democratic primary challenge Thursday, besting local pastor James Turner.

Stewart, who chairs the House Democratic Caucus, was facing his first primary challenge since being elected to the House more than a decade ago. 

Turner’s challenge drew some local attention in part because of his longtime involvement in community politics and activism, and because he lives in Antioch — the more populous end of the Nashville district. 

In campaigning for re-election, Stewart cited his work at the Capitol to bolster super-minority Democrats against Republicans dominant in both chambers. Turner, meanwhile, said the district deserved a representative more active in the community. 

Republican Donna Tees is on the November general election ballot, though the seat is expected to remain in Democratic hands. 

Vincent Dixie and Darren Jernigan, two other Nashville Democratic state representatives facing primary challenges, also won.