Incumbent Democratic governor Phil Bredesen was term-limited, and is prohibited by the Constitution of Tennessee from seeking a third consecutive term.

The primary election was held on August 5, 2010, with Haslam and McWherter winning their respective parties' nominations.

[2] Haslam received endorsements from former U.S. senator Howard Baker and Congressman Jimmy Duncan.

"[4] Haslam campaigned on his executive experience as both Knoxville's mayor and the president of a major company.

"[13] A recorded debate featuring 3 of the candidates, organized by campaign coordinator James Crenshaw, was held at the Scarett-Benett Center in Nashville, TN.