While November seems years away, the race to replace Senator Bob Corker is already in full gear. Corker has gained attention the past year for criticizing and receiving criticism from President Trump, adding his name to a growing list of Republicans not seeking re-election in November.

This move prompted U.S Representative Marsha Blackburn to announce her candidacy, likely securing the Republican nomination. Blackburn portrays herself as a firebrand conservative, pledging full support to President Trump’s policies, from NFL players kneeling to the construction of the border wall. Blackburn has also received the endorsement of several state GOP representatives, Koch brothers network and other national groups. While Blackburn may have the support of GOP groups and seems a sure win in deep red Tennessee, some Republicans seem a little worried about the entrance of veteran politician Phil Bredesen, a Democrat.

Bredesen formerly served as the Governor of Tennessee and was the last statewide Democrat voted into office. During his tenure as governor, he stimulated the Tennessee economy by bringing in companies like Volkswagen and Wacker Chemie.

Bredesen portrays himself as a centrist, which he hopes will continue to win over voters in Tennessee. Much like Doug Jones, the Democrat who defeated Roy Moore in Alabama’s election, Bredesen seems to want to distance himself from the title of a Democrat and focus on being seen as a moderating force.

Everyone in the state has a choice as to which representative they want to serve them and it is best to start paying attention now. Since this is a statewide election, everybody of voting age has the ability and civic duty to cast a vote. No matter which candidate you are voting for, it is vitally important to become registered to vote, and now it’s become even easier. If you go to govotetn.gov you can actually register to vote online. If you’re not 18 now but will be by the election, you can still register.

Tennessee is becoming an increasingly interesting state to watch as the full force of Trumpism is being pitted against moderation and persuasion politics, and whether a party label will sink a candidate in these hyperpolarized times.