Trump-Backed Van Epps Wins Tennessee GOP Primary
Matt Van Epps, a West Point graduate and combat-decorated Army helicopter pilot, clinched the Republican nomination in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District after securing the backing of former President Donald Trump. The victory sets the stage for a December 2nd special election that could serve as a barometer for Trump’s influence and second-term agenda.
Van Epps faced a crowded field of eleven Republicans vying to replace former Rep. Mark Green, who resigned earlier this year. Trump’s late endorsement proved decisive, as two rivals dropped out and threw their support behind Van Epps. He celebrated his “landslide” win by thanking voters across Middle and West Tennessee, pledging to “keep this seat RED.”
His Democratic opponent will be state Rep. Aftyn Behn, a social worker and activist known for challenging Tennessee’s strict abortion laws. Behn emerged from a four-way Democratic primary and is preparing to mount a spirited campaign in the deep-red district.
The district, redrawn by Republicans in 2022, stretches across 14 counties bordering Kentucky and Alabama. It combines rural farmland, wealthy Nashville suburbs, and Fort Campbell’s military community. Historically conservative, the seat went to Republicans by over 20 points in both 2022 and 2024.
Still, the December election could test Trump’s appeal with suburban voters and measure enthusiasm for his “America First” platform. Trump praised Van Epps as an “America First Patriot” with the “wisdom and courage” to support veterans, defend the country, and uphold peace through strength.
Van Epps, who previously served under Gov. Bill Lee and Rep. Mark Green, campaigned heavily on his military service and opposition to “woke” policies. His candidacy drew over $3.1 million in outside spending, with conservative groups flooding the airwaves against rival Republican Jody Barrett.
For Democrats, Behn’s challenge underscores the uphill fight facing progressives in Tennessee, where Republicans control eight of nine House seats. Her campaign is expected to focus on reproductive rights, health care access, and community organizing — issues she has championed throughout her career.
If Van Epps wins in December, the GOP would slightly expand its slim House majority, strengthening Trump’s legislative hand in Washington as he pursues his second-term agenda.
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