Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn said she would make a cap on local property tax increases a priority if elected. Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green, the Democratic candidate, said local governments have few ways to raise revenue and should look first to budget surpluses and other available funds to help residents.

Blackburn said she has been discussing possible legislation with state lawmakers, who could begin pre-filing bills in November and December. She said a cap might limit annual increases to 1%, 1.5% or 2%, though she did not endorse a specific figure. She also pointed to possible relief for older residents and first-time homebuyers.

Blackburn said voters will decide Nov. 3 on a constitutional amendment intended to prevent the state from imposing a property tax. She argued that a separate cap on local taxes would help prevent people from losing homes, farms or businesses because of rising tax bills.

Green described property taxes as one of the few revenue sources available to cities and counties, which also rely on tools such as wheel taxes. She said she has never voted for a property tax increase during her time on the Memphis council and argued that governments should improve budgeting and use existing funds more effectively.

Green cited state surpluses, reserves and federal assistance as potential resources, and said returning some surplus money to residents could benefit small businesses and local economies. Blackburn, meanwhile, accused Green of wanting to raise taxes; Green’s comments in the interview focused on budget choices and existing funds rather than proposing a property tax increase.

The candidates also disagreed over school vouchers. Blackburn supports Tennessee’s voucher program, while Green wants to end it. Green said public schools are underfunded and pointed to aging buildings, outdated infrastructure and teachers who are overworked and underpaid. She said public education affects the wider community, not only families with school-age children.

Blackburn said schools need adequate funding and opportunities, and praised public charter schools as places where educators can test new ideas. She said teachers whose approaches can be expanded should be recognized and may merit financial rewards.

Independent candidate David Hatley’s campaign did not respond to repeated interview requests, according to the campaign outreach described by the station. Tennessee’s early-voting locations, dates and hours are available through the secretary of state’s office.