Ogles’ defeat followed controversy over a social media post widely criticised as Islamophobic by Muslim advocacy groups and Democratic lawmakers.
“Muslims don’t belong in American society. Pluralism is a lie,” Ogles wrote on X.
Osama Jamal, secretary-general of the US Council of Muslim Organizations, condemned the remarks, saying: “Hate and discrimination against one another have no place in America.”
Pro-Trump challenger
Although Hatcher did not receive Trump’s endorsement, he was backed by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and campaigned as a supporter of the president while highlighting his farming background.
“The message resonated, and the message was: Work like a farmer, get things done and serve others,” Hatcher told The Associated Press after his victory.
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