President Barack Obama is endorsing the white incumbent for Congress in a predominantly black district in Tennessee.
Two-term U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen faces an Aug. 5 Democratic primary against former Memphis mayor Willie Herenton, who is black. Herenton is making race an issue, saying that Tennessee needs just one black congressman. It currently has none.
Cohen backed Obama during his presidential run and voted for the health care law passed earlier this year.
In a statement Tuesday, Obama calls Cohen a proven leader and a strong voice for Tennessee.
Cohen says he looks forward to continuing to work closely with Obama.
The district roughly follows the borders of Memphis.
© Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.