Republican Matt Van Epps has secured a victory in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District special election, defeating Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn. The election took place on Tuesday and was closely watched due to its implications for both parties as they prepare for the upcoming midterm elections.

Van Epps, a military veteran and former state commissioner, won the seat previously held by Republican Mark Green, who resigned in July. The race was marked by significant outside spending, with over $6.5 million invested, including more than $1.6 million from the pro-Trump super PAC MAGA Inc. This election was seen as a critical test of voter sentiment amid President Donald Trump’s second term.

Behn's campaign gained traction, particularly in Davidson County, where high voter turnout helped narrow the margin compared to Green's 22-point victory last November. Despite this, Van Epps managed to maintain a lead, bolstered by support from House Speaker Mike Johnson and a virtual rally featuring Trump, who praised Van Epps on social media.

The 7th District, which spans a large area of rural Middle Tennessee, was redrawn by Republican lawmakers during the 2022 redistricting process. This change aimed to secure Republican dominance in a district that previously leaned heavily toward Trump, who received about 60% of the vote in the last election.

Behn's campaign focused on issues like affordability and healthcare access, resonating with swing voters and those in rural areas. She made a concerted effort to raise national awareness about her candidacy, participating in a press tour and receiving support from prominent Democrats, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Despite the loss, Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin highlighted Behn's performance as a sign of shifting dynamics, stating, "Aftyn Behn's overperformance in this Trump +22 district is historic and a flashing warning sign for Republicans heading into the midterms."

Van Epps, who aligned his campaign closely with Trump’s agenda, emphasized economic issues in his messaging. He promised to lower prices and create jobs, while also criticizing "career politicians." In contrast, Behn's campaign aimed to challenge economic policies that she argued favored the wealthy.

As a result of this election, Republicans will hold a 220-213 majority in the U.S. House, although this could change with upcoming resignations. The outcome in Tennessee reflects broader trends as both parties gear up for the 2026 midterm elections, with Democrats seeking to capitalize on recent successes in other states.