Who Is Running in Tennessee Congressional District 3rd in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Charles Fleischmann
(Incumbent)Economy
HighCharles Fleischmann has supported trade agreements, stating the importance of opening markets to boost domestic employment and job creation. He introduced the SECURE Minerals Act, aiming to counter China's economic threat by supporting domestic critical mineral supply chains. Additionally, Fleischmann argued for limiting federal spending, citing the need to control inflation.
Immigration
HighCharles Fleischmann voted against a major immigration bill, stating it was not conservative enough for him. He advocates for securing U.S. borders by increasing border patrol agents, utilizing advanced technology, and enforcing existing laws, emphasizing the safety of American citizens. He believes any immigration law changes must originate from Congress and opposes changes to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Healthcare
HighCharles Fleischmann voted in favor of H.R. 6703, the "Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act," to reduce healthcare costs. He consistently supports healthcare reforms that aim to lower costs and increase patient access through competition and choice. Fleischmann advocates for replacing the existing healthcare system with free market solutions to ensure affordable healthcare. He also defended Medicaid cuts in the 2026 budget and supported the PACT Act for veterans' healthcare benefits.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Charles Fleischmann |
|---|---|
| Economy | Charles Fleischmann has supported trade agreements, stating the importance of opening markets to boost domestic employment and job creation. He introduced the SECURE Minerals Act, aiming to counter China's economic threat by supporting domestic critical mineral supply chains. Additionally, Fleischmann argued for limiting federal spending, citing the need to control inflation. High |
| Immigration | Charles Fleischmann voted against a major immigration bill, stating it was not conservative enough for him. He advocates for securing U.S. borders by increasing border patrol agents, utilizing advanced technology, and enforcing existing laws, emphasizing the safety of American citizens. He believes any immigration law changes must originate from Congress and opposes changes to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). High |
| Healthcare | Charles Fleischmann voted in favor of H.R. 6703, the "Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act," to reduce healthcare costs. He consistently supports healthcare reforms that aim to lower costs and increase patient access through competition and choice. Fleischmann advocates for replacing the existing healthcare system with free market solutions to ensure affordable healthcare. He also defended Medicaid cuts in the 2026 budget and supported the PACT Act for veterans' healthcare benefits. High |
| Climate & Energy | Representative Charles Fleischmann, as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, authored and supported the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Appropriations Act, which passed the House with strong bipartisan support. He opposed efforts to implement deeper cuts to energy and environment programs, including an amendment to eliminate funding for the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). He believes EERE is an office that should be supported, and his bill aimed for a balanced approach to reductions. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Charles Fleischmann consistently votes against abortion rights, supporting legislation like the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act and opposing federal funding for abortion. He voted against the Right to Contraception Act and the Women’s Health Protection Act. Citing the U.S. Constitution's protection of life and viewing abortion as an assault on human dignity, he earned a 100% rating from the National Right to Life Committee. High |
| Foreign Policy | Representative Charles Fleischmann voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Appropriations Act, which passed the House 397-28, and the FY26 Energy and Water Development bill, which passed 419-6 and was signed into law. As Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, he demonstrates support for national defense. His official website features a dedicated section on national defense, further indicating his focus on this area. His actions highlight a commitment to funding initiatives related to national security. Medium |
| Education | Charles Fleischmann believes that education should primarily be managed by state governments, which are more aware of student needs. He has expressed serious concerns about any federal program influencing or coercing states in their educational advancements. During his time in Congress, he has supported legislation to prohibit the Secretary of Education from attempting to influence states into adopting Common Core Standards. High |
| Gun Policy | Chuck Fleischmann supports the Second Amendment, stating that an armed citizenry is a free citizenry, and he is a member of the NRA. He voted "Yea" on H.Res. 1042 in 2026, a resolution related to H.R. 2189, which aims to modernize federal firearms laws. He also voted "No" on background checks for every firearm sale in January 2019 and background checks for private transfers in March 2021. Furthermore, he supports the STOP School Violence Act and the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, and voted to block the Biden Administration's pistol brace ban. High |
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