Longtime Memphis Representative Will Not Seek Re-election

Representative Steve Cohen has represented Memphis since 2007. After Republicans redrew his congressional district, he announced he will not seek re-election. The decision leaves an opening that could go to a younger candidate who challenged him in the past.

Cohen has held the seat for nearly two decades. The redistricting altered the boundaries of the district that includes Memphis. Officials completed the redrawing process following the 2020 census. The move shifts the political landscape in the area.

A younger rival who previously ran against Cohen may now face a different field of candidates. No formal announcements have been made by other potential contenders.

Redistricting occurs after each decennial census to reflect population shifts. In this case, the new map changed the composition of the district Cohen has represented. The representative cited those changes as a factor in his decision not to run again.

The process is handled at the state level. Republicans hold the majority in the Tennessee legislature that approved the current map. Cohen's district was affected by the boundary adjustments.

Cohen stepping aside, the seat will be open in the upcoming election cycle. The district remains centered on Memphis. Local political dynamics will determine the next representative. Cohen has not detailed his future plans beyond leaving Congress. The announcement comes as filing deadlines for the election approach. Voters in the district will select a new representative later this year.