Challenger Justin J. Pearson Aims to Bring Change to Tennessee's 9th Congressional District
State Representative Justin J. Pearson has announced his intention to challenge incumbent Steve Cohen for the seat representing Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Pearson emphasized the need to advocate for justice, fairness, and equality, citing concerns about the state of democracy and the well-being of communities. He criticized Cohen for being disconnected from the everyday struggles of Memphians and highlighted the economic challenges faced by the district, which includes Memphis and parts of Tipton County.
Pearson, a 30-year-old activist and founder of Memphis Community Against Pollution, gained recognition for his work opposing an oil pipeline in southwest Memphis neighborhoods. He later won a special election to fill a statehouse seat and has been vocal on issues such as gun control and clean air. If elected to Congress, Pearson aims to address labor rights, affordable housing, gun control, poverty, and healthcare equity, including expanded Medicare access and veterans support.
In contrast, Cohen, a 76-year-old incumbent, has directed federal funding to Memphis for public transit and school renovations, chaired hearings on voting rights and police reform, and sponsored legislation incorporated into the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. Cohen, who highlighted his experience and institutional knowledge in a Facebook post, expressed confidence in overcoming Pearson's challenge in the Democratic Primary.
Pearson, who grew up in Southwest Memphis and comes from a humble background, emphasized his close ties to the community and his commitment to representing the interests of working families. He criticized Cohen's perceived lack of proximity to the issues faced by most Memphians and stressed the importance of having a representative who can effectively advocate for the community's needs.
The primary for the U.S. House seat is scheduled for August 6, 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026. Pearson's campaign priorities include addressing economic disparities, advocating for social justice, and working towards a more equitable future for the residents of Tennessee's 9th Congressional District.