Republican Matt Van Epps wins Tennessee special election

Republican candidate Matt Van Epps is the projected victor in Tennessees special election for the U.S. House seat representing the 7th congressional district, the Associated Press reports. With 86% of ballots counted shortly after 9:30 p.m., Van Epps led Democratic contender Aftyn Behn 52.4% to 46.5%. This district was previously won by President Donald Trump by 22 points in 2024.

Van Epps success comes after intense campaigning during the final weeks of the race, which proved closer than anticipated and drew national attention.

From Safe Red to National Spotlight

The district, typically a Republican stronghold, attracted major political figures on both sides. Former President Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former Vice President Al Gore all campaigned for their respective parties. Both Democrats and Republicans invested millions of dollars, with the GOP outspending Democrats. The contest highlighted the strategic importance of each House seat as Republicans aim to maintain their narrow majority ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Behn, the Democratic candidate, performed strongly in a traditionally Republican district. Democrats are framing her campaigns results, alongside recent gubernatorial wins in Virginia and New Jersey, as a potential indicator of broader momentum for the party heading into 2026.

District Overview and Election Context

The 7th congressional district stretches from Tennessees northern border with Kentucky to the southern border with Arkansas and includes portions of liberal Nashville. The special election was held to fill the seat vacated by former Republican Rep. Mark Green, who resigned in July. Uncertainty over voter turnout made the race unpredictable, especially since the election occurred right after the Thanksgiving weekend.

Looking Ahead

As the projected winner, Van Epps will serve the remainder of the current term but must run again in next years midterms. In a CNN interview prior to the race being called, Behn described her campaign as exceeding expectations and left open the possibility of challenging for the seat again in 2026.

The Republican victory strengthens Speaker Johnsons position in advancing the partys legislative priorities, adding a seat to the GOPs current 219 members in the House, increasing their total to 220 once Van Epps is sworn in. However, Republicans are expected to lose a vote in January due to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greenes resignation.

This story is developing. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Author: Sophia Brooks