Blackburn Names Transition Team

Marsha Blackburn named five individuals to her Transition Advisory Committee on Thursday. The group will assist the governor-elect as she prepares to leave the U.S. Senate and take office in Nashville.

Stuart McWhorter will serve as the committee chairman. The other members report directly to him. The team includes former state legislator Donna Barrett, who helped end the state income tax. Julie Beaman, who served as chief of staff for Governor Bill Lee, is also on the list.

Steve Brophy joins the group after serving as Blackburn's chief of staff from 2003 to 2009. Cato Johnson brings more than 40 years of experience in healthcare public policy. Arch Trimble, who founded the consulting firm Arch About TN, rounds out the five-person committee.

Blackburn won the Tennessee governor's race in Tuesday's general election. She defeated Democrat Jerri Green, Independents David Hatley and Lauren Pinkston, and several other candidates. She is currently the U.S. senator for the state.

The incoming administration plans to review property-tax relief options for seniors and first-time homebuyers. The team will also look at ways to lower costs for new housing construction in Tennessee. These goals are part of the initial work the new governor intends to tackle.

Blackburn will be sworn in as governor on January 16, 2027. She retains her Senate seat until she selects a replacement. No name has been announced for the person who will take her place in the United States Senate.