Darden Copeland Announces Candidacy for Congressional Seat

Nashville businessman Darden Copeland has officially launched his campaign for the Democratic nomination in the upcoming primary for Congressional District 7.

“It often feels like politicians are more focused on fighting each other than on fighting for their constituents. This district is overlooked by those in power, who prefer to score political points instead of addressing real issues,” Darden stated. “Many working families in Tennessee struggle with costs and healthcare that they can hardly afford, and I’m determined to change that.”

Copeland is the founder of the Calvert Street Group, a public relations firm based in Nashville that primarily engages in referendums and land use campaigns. Originally from Virginia, he has previously worked on various Democratic campaigns, supporting figures like former U.S. Senator Mark Warner, Senator John Kelly from Massachusetts, and former Vice President Al Gore.

He has been preparing to announce his candidacy for several weeks and filed a campaign committee organizational statement with the Federal Election Commission on July 24.

Copeland joins state lawmakers Aftin Bain, Vincent Dixie, and Beau Mitchell in the race to fill the seat once held by the recently retired U.S. Representative Mark Green.

On the Republican side, there are 18 candidates vying for the GOP nominations, including Jodie Barrett, Lee Reeves, Gino Bruso, former MP Brandon Ogles, and former service committee member Matt Van Epps.

The primary election is scheduled for October 7, followed by the general election on December 2. For more information about the election and voter registration deadlines, you can visit the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.