Trump warns of global attention on Tennessee race as Republicans try to prevent failure

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump reminded voters in Tennessee that "the entire world is paying attention" as Republicans make a final effort to secure victory in the Dec. 2 special election for Tennessee's 7th congressional district. Trump, appearing via a cellphone held by House Speaker Mike Johnson, encouraged voters to support Republican candidate Matt Van Epps against Democrat Aftyn Behn in a race that has unexpectedly attracted national attention due to its close margin.

Speaker Johnson joined Van Epps and leading Tennessee Republicans in Franklin, Tennessee, to rally support in the final hours before the election, aiming to prevent a Democratic upset. "Keep in mind, he holds a slim majority of three in the House, and there arent many who can manage that," Trump remarked on Dec. 1, emphasizing the importance of winning this seat.

Behn, a Democratic state representative and former community organizer, and Van Epps, a combat veteran who previously led the Tennessee Department of General Services, are in a tight contest in a district that Trump had won by 22 points in the 2024 presidential election. Recent polling by Emerson College Polling/The Hill shows Van Epps leading by just 2 points, 48% to 46%, within the survey's margin of error.

The winner will take over from former Republican Rep. Mark Green, who stepped down to pursue a private-sector career. Even a narrow loss for Republicans could indicate challenges ahead, signaling potential shifts in voter sentiment ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

"Matt Van Epps is a proven winner and will serve the district well," Trump stated, while criticizing Behn, alleging she opposes Christianity and country music. In the closing days of the campaign, Republicans have invested heavily to portray Behn as extremely progressive.

Trump also planned a tele-town hall for Van Epps, urging voters: "Tomorrow morning, go out and cast your ballots. Lets achieve a decisive victory. Tennessee is under the spotlight, and this vote will demonstrate the strength of the Republican Party."

The Democratic National Committee responded to the Republican campaign efforts, highlighting the resources and money spent to retain a seat in a district Trump once won comfortably. DNC Deputy Communications Director Abhi Rahman said, "Win or lose, Republicans have had to invest heavily and mobilize all resources to defend this seat."

Author: Benjamin Carter