Republicans Secure Tennessee House Seat Amid Democratic Gains
Republican Matt Van Epps has won the special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, marking a significant event in the political landscape. His victory, delivered with a 9-point margin over Democratic State Representative Aftyn Behn, garnered national attention, amplified by over $6.5 million in outside spending.
Election Overview
On December 2, 2025, Matt Van Epps delivered his victory speech in Nashville. The election was notable for high-profile investments from both parties as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
Key Facts
- Winner: Matt Van Epps (Republican)
- Opponent: Aftyn Behn (Democrat)
- Winning Margin: 9 percentage points
- Outside Spending: Over $6.5 million
- Date of Election: December 2, 2025
- Previous Vote Count: President Trump won the district with approximately 60% in the last election.
Political Implications
Van Epps’s win reinforces Republican control in the House, increasing their majority to 220-213 until the resignation of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene in early January 2026. This outcome also reflects a growing momentum for Democrats, as Behn secured nearly 45% of the vote in a district known for its Republican lean. This shift aligns with a national trend where Democrats have improved their standing across various special elections.
Democratic Gains Amidst Republican Wins
Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin highlighted Behn’s performance as indicative of a broader Democratic resurgence. “Aftyn Behn’s overperformance in this Trump +22 district is historic,” Martin said, suggesting it signals trouble for Republicans as they head into the midterms.
Campaign Strategies
As affordability emerged as a central campaign theme, both candidates focused their messages on economic issues. Van Epps allied closely with Trump, promising to address healthcare costs and job creation. In contrast, Behn campaigned on reforming Washington and making healthcare affordable for all.
| Candidate | Key Message |
|---|---|
| Matt Van Epps | Focus on creating jobs and lowering prices |
| Aftyn Behn | Make healthcare affordable and support small businesses |
Future Outlook
The closer-than-expected results, combined with significant investment from both parties, suggest a dynamic political climate ahead of the 2026 midterms. While Republicans maintain a slight edge, the Democratic Party’s recent gains indicate potential challenges for the GOP as they strategize for upcoming elections.
