Republicans retained a crucial congressional seat in Tennessee after a high-stakes special election that drew national attention. Matt Van Epps, the GOP nominee endorsed by former President Donald Trump, defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn to succeed former GOP Rep. Mark Green, who resigned in June.
Eko Hot News reports that the election was closely watched due to the GOP’s narrow majority in the U.S. House. The 7th Congressional District, spanning central and western Tennessee from Kentucky to Alabama and including parts of Nashville, was a Trump stronghold in last year’s presidential election. Despite the district’s conservative lean, Democrats campaigned aggressively, viewing the race as a test of their growing momentum ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Van Epps, a military veteran and former state commissioner, credited his victory to strong local support and Trump’s endorsement, saying, “Our victory was powered by a movement of Tennesseans ready for change.” President Trump congratulated Van Epps on social media, praising the win as another success for the Republican Party.
Democratic nominee Aftyn Behn, dubbed Tennessee’s “AOC” for her progressive platform, focused on healthcare and affordability throughout her campaign. In her concession remarks, she emphasised that the race marked a shift in public sentiment and expressed optimism about the Democratic movement in the South.
National Republican and Democratic leaders closely monitored the contest, with both parties investing significant resources. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP officials joined Van Epps on the campaign trail to mobilise voters, while Democrats highlighted Behn’s overperformance in a traditionally Republican district as a warning sign for the midterms.
The election outcome ensures continued GOP control of the 7th District, reinforcing Republican strength in Tennessee while signalling emerging challenges for both parties in upcoming national races.
