NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Former Tennessee Governor Bill Lee's commissioner, Matt Van Epps, has claimed victory in a heated Republican primary for the special election to fill the congressional seat vacated by GOP's Mark Green this past summer. Van Epps' win came after a significant endorsement from former President Donald Trump, which reportedly swayed voter sentiment even after early in-person voting concluded.
Van Epps outshined ten other Republican candidates, with two, including state Rep. Lee Reeves, suspending their campaigns in light of Trump’s endorsement and promptly throwing their support behind him. The upcoming general election, set for December 2, will likely measure the strength of Trump's ongoing influence, particularly among suburban Republican voters.
This congressional seat is one of three districts in Tennessee that was strategically drawn to be safely red, following a 2022 redistricting that divided the left-leaning areas of Nashville. Historically, voters in this district have supported Republican candidates by large margins, with former Rep. Green winning by over 20 points in both the 2022 and 2024 elections.
Throughout his campaign, Van Epps capitalized on his military background as a lieutenant colonel and Army Special Operations helicopter pilot to appeal to voters, overcoming notable challengers like state Reps. Jody Barrett and Gino Bulso. His previous endorsements from Governor Lee, Rep. Green, and Rep. Jim Jordan all contributed to his primary success.
Democratic Contenders Challenge Trump's Policies
In contrast, the Democratic candidates are openly criticizing Trump’s policies, particularly his legislation termed the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” Notable Democratic contenders, such as Rep. Aftyn Behn, who advocates for women’s reproductive rights, and Rep. Vincent Dixie, are presenting themselves as alternatives to Trump’s agenda, emphasizing their local and community-focused viewpoints.
District 7 comprises a diverse mix of urban Nashville, extensive rural regions, and affluent suburbs, encompassing 14 counties along the borders with Kentucky and Alabama, including Fort Campbell military installation. The race has attracted substantial financial support, with over $3.1 million spent—primarily on the GOP side, signaling intense interest in this battle to secure a seat in Congress.
As Tennessee's congressional makeup currently shows one lone Democrat, Rep. Steve Cohen of Memphis amidst a predominantly Republican delegation, the outcomes of this special election could shape future legislative dynamics in the state.
