Republican Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee Special Election, Retains GOP Seat
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — December 3, 2025 — Republican Matt Van Epps secured victory in a special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, maintaining the seat for the GOP following the resignation of former Representative Mark Green. Van Epps defeated Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn in a race that attracted national attention as a key indicator ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The 7th District, which spans central and western Tennessee and includes parts of Nashville, has been a Republican stronghold. President Donald Trump carried the district by 22 points in the previous presidential election, and Green won the seat by more than 20 points in both 2022 and 2024.
Van Epps, a military combat veteran and former Tennessee Department of General Services commissioner, described the win as a “resounding victory” and a defining moment for both Tennessee and the country. He emphasized the importance of holding the House majority in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Behn, a state representative and former healthcare community organizer, conceded the race but expressed optimism about the future of progressive politics in Tennessee. The contest was closely watched as Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House, making the special election a critical test for both parties.
With some votes still being tallied on election night, Van Epps was projected to win by approximately nine points. The race followed a period of energized Democratic turnout after their recent election successes earlier in 2025.
The seat became vacant after Green resigned in June to pursue a private sector position. The special election was viewed as a must-win for Republicans to maintain their slim control of the House of Representatives.
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