Republican candidate Matt Van Epps has secured victory in a closely watched special election for the US House of Representatives in Tennessee, defeating Democratic challenger Aftyn Behn.
A Key Test for Republican Strength
The election, held on Monday in Tennessee's 7th congressional district, was widely viewed as a crucial gauge of Republican momentum heading into next year's congressional midterms. The Associated Press called the race at 9.47pm EST, with Van Epps holding a lead of 52% to 46% over Behn.
While the district, which covers the western Nashville suburbs and stretches from Kentucky to Alabama, is traditionally Republican-leaning, the six-point margin of victory represents a notable shift. Donald Trump carried the district by 22 points in 2024, making this a significantly tighter race than expected.
Trump's Influence and Campaign Dynamics
In his victory statement, Van Epps framed the win as a vindication of conservative support for former President Donald Trump, who campaigned virtually for him in the final days. "Running from Trump is how you lose. Running with Trump is how you win," Van Epps declared. He credited Trump's "unwavering support" for propelling his campaign to success.
The contest attracted substantial national attention and spending. Democratic-aligned groups, emboldened by recent election surprises in Virginia and New Jersey, invested heavily in Behn's campaign hoping for an upset. Conversely, Republican groups were forced to commit unusual resources to defend the seat.
Background of the Candidates and District
The special election was triggered by the resignation of Republican congressman Mark Green in July. Van Epps, a former army helicopter pilot and West Point graduate who previously ran Tennessee's department of general services, emerged from a crowded field of nine Republican candidates. He benefited from key endorsements from Trump, Green, and Tennessee's Republican governor, Bill Lee.
His opponent, Aftyn Behn, is a progressive activist and state representative for an east Nashville district. A former political organiser, she won a competitive four-way Democratic primary to secure her nomination.
Analysts from Cook's Political Report had noted the district now "leans Republican," a downgrade from its previously solid status, and predicted a single-digit race. The result confirms that assessment, highlighting potential vulnerabilities for the GOP despite holding a narrow 219-213 majority in the House.
