Live updates: Tennessee victory strengthens GOP ahead of possibly challenging midterms

Matt Van Epps victory in Tennessees special election on Tuesday offered Republicans a moment of relief. He secured the 7th Congressional District by a 9-point margin, notably narrower than former President Trumps 20-point lead there the previous year, giving Democrats a modest morale boost.

As the midterm season draws closer, the growing number of GOP lawmakers stepping down from their House seats has become a mounting concern, with more than two dozen announcing they wont seek another term.

In Washington, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remains under intense examination as Republican members of Congress debate how to address accusations that he was involved in a fatal boat strike in the Caribbean that may constitute a war crime.

Meanwhile, the White House is preparing for President Trump to deliver an announcement on Wednesday afternoon.

Author: Lucas Grant