Who Is Running in Tennessee Congressional District 9th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Steve Cohen
(Incumbent)Economy
HighCongressman Steve Cohen voted for major spending bills in January 2026 for departments including Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. He has emphasized his focus on economy and jobs by testifying before the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee regarding district priorities. Cohen stated his efforts have brought significant federal funds from Washington to Memphis.
Immigration
HighSteve Cohen voted against the "SAVE America Act" in 2021, a bill that would have imposed stricter voter ID requirements and proof-of-citizenship for voting, stating it was "voter suppression." He also voted in favor of the "American Dream and Promise Act of 2019," which aimed to protect certain immigrants from removal and offer a path to permanent residency. Furthermore, Cohen has consistently criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions and voted against its funding in fiscal year 2026, citing "out-of-control immigration enforcement."
Healthcare
HighSteve Cohen opposed the Continuing Appropriations Act, citing a lack of provisions for extending healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. He emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare, advocating for the extension of ACA subsidies to ensure millions can afford coverage. He has spoken about fighting to extend these subsidies to keep coverage affordable for everyone.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Steve Cohen |
|---|---|
| Economy | Congressman Steve Cohen voted for major spending bills in January 2026 for departments including Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. He has emphasized his focus on economy and jobs by testifying before the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee regarding district priorities. Cohen stated his efforts have brought significant federal funds from Washington to Memphis. High |
| Immigration | Steve Cohen voted against the "SAVE America Act" in 2021, a bill that would have imposed stricter voter ID requirements and proof-of-citizenship for voting, stating it was "voter suppression." He also voted in favor of the "American Dream and Promise Act of 2019," which aimed to protect certain immigrants from removal and offer a path to permanent residency. Furthermore, Cohen has consistently criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions and voted against its funding in fiscal year 2026, citing "out-of-control immigration enforcement." High |
| Healthcare | Steve Cohen opposed the Continuing Appropriations Act, citing a lack of provisions for extending healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. He emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare, advocating for the extension of ACA subsidies to ensure millions can afford coverage. He has spoken about fighting to extend these subsidies to keep coverage affordable for everyone. High |
| Climate & Energy | Research pending more substantial sources. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Congressman Steve Cohen recognizes abortion care as health care and reproductive rights as human rights, advocating for the freedom of Tennesseans to make their own medical decisions. He is an original cosponsor of the Women’s Health Protection Act, seeking to codify Roe v. Wade protections, and supports legislation like the Abortion Justice Act. He also applauded the Supreme Court's ruling maintaining access to mifepristone. High |
| Foreign Policy | Congressman Steve Cohen consistently voted against several National Defense Authorization Acts and Department of Defense Appropriations Acts. He supported the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act and backed a rule to combine foreign aid bills. Cohen emphasized avoiding military conflicts, stating that Americans voted for lower costs and safer communities, not open-ended wars. He also advocates for humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians while supporting Israel's right to defend itself. High |
| Education | Research pending more substantial sources. Low |
| Gun Policy | Congressman Steve Cohen supports gun control measures, co-sponsoring the Gun Show Loophole Closing Act and the Background Check Completion Act to enhance background checks. He voted "Yea" on the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 (H.R. 1808), which aimed to restrict semi-automatic assault weapons. Additionally, he supported a bill that included provisions for mental health services, prohibiting firearm purchases for certain domestic violence offenders, and funding for crisis intervention and community violence prevention initiatives. Medium |
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