Votes on federal laws and spending
Position guide
U.S. Senator
Represents the entire state in the United States Senate.
- Government level
- Federal · Legislative
- Typical term
- Six years
- Who it serves
- Tennessee statewide
The job in plain language01 02 03 How the position worksHow someone reaches the position Who the office works with Real-world choices01 02 03 Before you vote
What this position is responsible for
Senators vote on national taxes, spending, healthcare programs, infrastructure, judges, and federal agency leadership.
Confirms federal judges and senior presidential appointments
Approves treaties and conducts impeachment trials
Power is shared—not exercised alone.
Two senators represent Tennessee statewide. They are elected to staggered six-year terms, so both seats are not ordinarily on the ballot at the same time.
A senator works through committees, party conferences, negotiations with other senators, and coordination with the House and president. Senate offices also help Tennesseans communicate with and obtain services from federal agencies.
Decisions voters may notice
Federal taxes, spending, borrowing, and nationwide programs
Confirmation of federal judges, cabinet members, ambassadors, and other nominees
Treaties, investigations, impeachment trials, and oversight of executive agencies
Questions worth asking
The answers may differ among candidates, but each question relates directly to the authority and responsibilities of this position.
- Which committees and federal issues would the candidate prioritize for Tennessee?
- What standards would the candidate use when evaluating judges and executive nominees?
- When would the candidate compromise to pass legislation, and what principles would remain nonnegotiable?
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