Summary
The special election in Tennessee's 7th District showed a significant shift in voting patterns. The Republican candidate, Matt Van Epps, won by a smaller margin than expected in a district where Republicans usually win by large margins. This narrower win suggests potential challenges for Republicans in the future.
Key Facts
- The election took place in Tennessee's 7th District after Republican Mark Green resigned in July 2025.
- The election was on December 2, with Matt Van Epps, a Republican, running against Aftyn Behn, a Democrat.
- Van Epps won, but with a reduced margin of about nine points compared to the previous 21-point win in 2024.
- The district was redrawn in 2022 to favor Republicans by dividing Democratic voters.
- President Trump's approval rating fell in the district, with 49% of likely voters disapproving.
- Voter concerns included the economy, housing affordability, health care, and "threats to democracy."
- Van Epps supported Trump strongly, while Behn focused on economic and social issues.
- Both parties invested significant resources in the election, treating it as a measure of broader political trends.
