Trump-backed Republican keeps key Tennessee House seat with special election victory

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Republican Matt Van Epps has officially won the high-stakes special election on Tuesday, December 2, for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, keeping the vacant seat in GOP hands.

The Associated Press called the race for Van Epps, who defeated Democratic rival Aftyn Behn by nine percentage points in a contest that drew national attention as a litmus test for Republican strength ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Matt Van Epps calls the win a 'defining moment' 

Van Epps, a former state commissioner and military veteran, framed his win as a pivotal endorsement of the party's direction.

"This race was bigger than just one campaign," Van Epps said in his victory statement on Tuesday. "It represented a defining moment for Tennessee and for the direction of the country."

With the House GOP clinging to a razor-thin majority, the victory provides a crucial sigh of relief for Republicans in Washington.

While Van Epps secured the win, the margin of victory has raised eyebrows.

President Donald Trump carried the district, which stretches from Kentucky to Alabama and includes parts of Nashville, by 22 points in the previous election.

Van Epps’ nine-point win suggests a potential shift in voter enthusiasm, a point Democrats were quick to highlight.

"Aftyn Behn’s overperformance in this Trump +22 district is historic and a flashing warning sign for Republicans heading into the midterms," said DNC Chair Ken Martin.

Behn, dubbed the "AOC of Tennessee" for her progressive platform, remained optimistic in her concession.

"Whatever happens, win or lose, you’ve inspired a country," Behn told supporters. "What starts here changes this country."

Trump's influence remains key

Despite the tighter margins, Van Epps credited President Trump’s "all-in" support as the deciding factor.

Trump, whose endorsement helped Van Epps survive a crowded primary, congratulated the candidate on social media, calling it "Another great night for the Republican Party!!!"

"President Trump was all-in with us. That made the difference. In Congress, I’ll be all-in with him," Van Epps declared.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also played a significant role, campaigning with Van Epps on Election Eve to ensure base turnout.

"Special elections are strange because a lot of people take for granted in a deep red district like this that the Republican is just going to win automatically," Johnson told Fox News Digital.

Democrats say GOP seats not truly 'safe' after latest result

Democratic groups argued that the result proves no Republican seat is truly safe.

The House Majority PAC stated, "Tonight's results make it clear: No House Republican's re-election should be considered safe next November."

Behn, who faced attacks for past comments criticizing Nashville and country music, argued that the electorate is shifting.

"I think the electorate is shifting to accept a candidate like me that has a progressive track record," she said.

For Republicans, however, the bottom line remains a "resounding victory" that maintains their control in the House.

"We are going to take this momentum forward, and we’re going to win in 2026," Van Epps predicted.