U.S. News
Tennessee’s GOP House Race Energizes Conservative Base
Clear Facts
- Republican Matt Van Epps competes against Democrat Aftyn Behn for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District seat in a special election.
- President Trump and top GOP leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, campaigned for Van Epps to secure the seat and protect the House majority.
- Democrats, led by Behn, have mobilized significant support, while millions have been spent by both parties to influence the outcome.
Republican congressional nominee Matt Van Epps reported strong early voter turnout and expressed optimism about securing victory as the district voted to fill the vacant House seat.
He stated, “We were up in early voting, and we’re just going to keep pressing forward to win today.”
Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn are contending for the seat vacated by former GOP Rep. Mark Green, who resigned earlier this year.
The GOP seeks to hold this seat as its House majority remains narrow, making this contest crucial for Republicans.
President Trump previously won the district by 22 points, and former Rep. Green had strong victories there, but new polls indicate a close race.
In a message to supporters, Van Epps remarked, “A win is a win,” and emphasized his commitment to maximizing the margin and maintaining GOP control.
House Speaker Mike Johnson joined Van Epps at several rallies and urged conservative voters not to be complacent.
“We’re going to win this seat, but we cannot take anything for granted,” Johnson said.
He added, “Special elections are strange because a lot of people take for granted in a deep red district like this that the Republican is just going to win automatically. Nothing’s automatic. So we’re here to help turn out the vote and make sure we get this great candidate right over that line.”
Johnson encouraged Republican turnout by emphasizing the importance of every vote, especially from Trump supporters who might typically sit out special elections.
At a rally, Trump addressed Tennessee voters by phone, saying, “Let’s make it a sweeping victory. The whole world is watching Tennessee right now. And they’re watching your district. The whole world. It’s a big vote. It’s going to show something. It’s got to show that the Republican Party is stronger than it’s ever been.”
Van Epps received additional public support from Tennessee’s Republican governor, both U.S. senators from the state, and various state GOP leaders.
On the Democratic side, Behn energized her base with campaign appearances and national progressive endorsements.
Behn said, “Whatever happens, win or lose, you’ve inspired a country. You’ve shown people the South has something to say.”
She told the press, “For me, we’ve already won over the hearts and minds of so many Tennesseans and across the country. What starts here changes this country.”
She added, “I think the electorate is shifting to accept a candidate like me that has a progressive track record.”
Outside groups and both national parties poured millions into advertising and campaigning, underlining the election’s significance on both sides.
Stay tuned for updates as the results of this tight, consequential race unfold, and make sure your voice is heard at the polls.
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