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| Donald Trump |
Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District Special Election, Expanding GOP House Majority
Tennessee — Trump-endorsed Republican Matt Van Epps has won the special election in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, defeating Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn in a race that drew significant national attention despite the district’s traditionally Republican lean.
With this victory, the Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives will increase to 220–213, up from 219. The win strengthens the GOP’s narrow margin ahead of the 2026 midterm cycle—an outcome party leaders had stressed as critical.
Decision Desk HQ projected Van Epps as the winner on Tuesday evening, marking a key hold for Republicans as voters across the district cast ballots in a closely watched contest shaped by heavy campaign spending and messaging from both national parties.
The seat became vacant earlier this year following the resignation of former Rep. Mark Green, prompting a competitive special election that political observers viewed as another early test of voter sentiment heading into the next election season.
Despite the district’s strong Republican voting history, Democrats invested significant resources in Behn’s campaign, hoping to signal momentum heading into 2026. Ultimately, GOP turnout and the former president's endorsement helped Van Epps maintain the district’s longstanding conservative alignment.
Van Epps is expected to be sworn in soon, adding one more vote to the GOP’s slim but crucial House majority.
FAQs: Matt Van Epps Wins TN-7 Special Election
1. Who won the Tennessee 7th Congressional District special election?
Republican Matt Van Epps, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, won the special election.
2. Who was the Democratic candidate in the race?
The Democratic candidate was Aftyn Behn, a Tennessee state representative.
3. Why was this special election held?
The election was held to fill the seat vacated by former Republican Rep. Mark Green, who resigned earlier this year.
4. How does this result affect the U.S. House majority?
With Van Epps’ victory, Republicans expand their House majority to 220–213, up from 219.
5. Why was this election considered important?
Even though the district is historically Republican, national attention and heavy campaign spending made it a key test of party strength ahead of the 2026 midterms. It was also crucial for the GOP to maintain its narrow House majority.
6. Was the district competitive?
Not typically. Tennessee’s 7th District is considered solidly Republican, but Democrats invested heavily in the race to test voter sentiment and build momentum.
7. How quickly was the winner projected?
Decision Desk HQ projected Matt Van Epps as the winner shortly after polls closed.
8. What role did Trump’s endorsement play?
Trump’s backing boosted Van Epps’ visibility and helped consolidate Republican support in the district.
9. What happens next?
Matt Van Epps will be sworn into Congress soon and join the U.S. House of Representatives.
10. How might this election impact the 2026 midterms?
Analysts see it as an early indicator of party enthusiasm and turnout dynamics, with Republicans encouraged by the hold and Democrats evaluating strategy in traditionally red districts.
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