Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee’s 7th District Special Election: Breaking News: Matt Van Epps Declared Winner in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District Special Election
Nashville, TN | December 3, 2025
In one of the most closely watched political contests of the year, Republican Matt Van Epps has officially secured victory in the Tennessee 7th Congressional District Special Election, filling the vacancy left by former Representative Mark Green. The election, held on December 2, 2025, drew national attention due to its intense campaigning, heavy financial involvement from major political action committees, and the strong contrast between the two leading candidates.
Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran and former Tennessee Commissioner of General Services, ran a campaign centered on leadership, national security, and a continued commitment to conservative governance. His opponent, Aftyn Behn, the Democratic challenger and community activist, energized younger voters with her focus on healthcare accessibility, workers’ rights, and strengthening local communities. The dynamic clash of ideologies made this race one of the most followed special elections of the year.
A Contest Shaped by National Issues : Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee’s 7th District Special Election
The 7th Congressional District has historically leaned Republican, yet this special election drew significant attention because both major political parties viewed it as a symbolic battleground. Issues such as national defense, inflation, immigration policy, infrastructure upgrades, and the future of federal spending played a pivotal role throughout the campaign.
Van Epps framed himself as a stability-focused candidate, emphasizing his background in public service and the military. Throughout the campaign, he repeatedly highlighted his experience managing state operations and serving the country overseas. His message of “strong leadership for a stronger Tennessee” resonated particularly well with rural voters, military families, and older residents who prioritized security and fiscal conservatism.
Behn, on the other hand, centered her platform on improving public education, investing in local infrastructure, expanding Medicaid, and ensuring mental health support for underserved communities. Her outreach strategy included town halls, grassroots mobilization, and community-focused events. Despite being the underdog, she succeeded in narrowing the gap in several precincts, showcasing the district’s evolving political engagement.
Heavy Investments and Ground-Level Campaigning
This special election also gained prominence due to the substantial funding poured into it from national committees. Political analysts noted that both Republican and Democratic organizations, along with independent PACs, funneled resources into advertisements, outreach programs, and voter mobilization efforts.
For Van Epps, endorsements from key Republican leaders and organizations boosted his campaign’s visibility. His military background made him especially appealing to veterans’ groups, many of which publicly supported him. His campaign also focused heavily on door-to-door canvassing, rural outreach, and digital engagement.
Aftyn Behn, backed by progressive organizations and grassroots networks, ran a strong ground game. She invested heavily in social media outreach, volunteer-driven community events, and campus engagement strategies aimed at energizing younger voters. Her campaign made notable inroads in suburban and urban pockets of the district.
The Final Results and Voter Response
Election officials reported a solid voter turnout for a special election, signaling the high level of public interest. Supporters of Van Epps celebrated across Nashville and surrounding counties as the results confirmed his lead.
In his heartfelt victory speech, Van Epps thanked his supporters, campaign volunteers, and service members. He emphasized that his journey from the battlefield to public office had always been driven by a deep desire to serve.
He stated, “The people of Tennessee have placed their trust in me, and I will work tirelessly every single day to protect our freedoms and strengthen our communities.”
Aftyn Behn graciously conceded the race, thanking her supporters and pledging to continue advocating for working families, healthcare equity, and community development. She noted that while the election did not go her way, the movement built around her campaign would continue beyond this race.
What This Victory Means Moving Forward : Matt Van Epps Wins Tennessee’s 7th District Special Election
With Van Epps’ win, Republicans maintain firm control over Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. Political observers believe this victory could energize the GOP ahead of the upcoming national elections, especially in regions where conservative voters continue to prioritize economic concerns, traditional values, and strong defense policies.
Meanwhile, analysts say that Behn’s competitive showing demonstrates increasing Democratic enthusiasm in areas previously considered safe Republican territory. This suggests a gradual shifting landscape, one that could influence future political calculations in Tennessee and beyond.
Van Epps is expected to assume office swiftly and begin participating in legislative activities that shape national policy decisions. His focus areas are likely to include strengthening military support systems, enhancing state–federal partnerships, controlling federal spending, and promoting economic opportunities within Tennessee.
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