Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District held a closely watched special election on Tuesday to replace Republican Representative Mark Green.
Republican Matt Van Epps secured a victory against Democratic state Representative Aftyn Behn. He narrowly emerged victorious with around 52% of the vote, preserving the seat for Republicans but reflecting a tighter margin than expected.
The district, which includes parts of Nashville and surrounding counties, is historically a Republican stronghold but has seen growing Democratic competitiveness in recent years.
Why was this special election held?
Tennessee called the special election after Green, who first won the seat in 2018, resigned in July following his decision to retire.
He had been a dominant force in the district, winning re-election in 2024 by 21 points, according to Al Jazeera.
Who is Matt Van Epps?
A Nashville-area resident, Matt Van Epps previously served as commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services under Gov. Lee, overseeing state operations and infrastructure.
Epps, a former Army helicopter pilot, triumphed over nine GOP primary rivals in October with several endorsements, CNN reported.
His military service and state government experience positioned him as a pragmatic conservative focused on veteran affairs, economic growth, and border security, according to The Guardian.
His campaign and key issues
Epps campaigned on unwavering loyalty to President Donald Trump, touting achievements like tax cuts and immigration enforcement while criticising “liberal media”.
He highlighted support for families, workers, small businesses, and national security in the district spanning Nashville suburbs, wealthy enclaves, poor areas, and an Army base.
Trump had also campaigned for Epps at a tele-rally and repeatedly offered his support leading up to the election.
Epps thanks Trump
Van Epps thanked President Trump in his victory speech, saying “your endorsement made the difference and I will never forget it”.