By Anna CommanderShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberMAGA Republicans are reacting to the outcome of Tennessee's special election results, praising Republican candidate Matt Van Epps for defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn.
Why It Matters
Although the GOP retained the seat with Van Epps’ victory, Democratic candidate Behn narrowed the Republican margin, signaling potential momentum shifts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The race also showcased significant national party investments and became a measure of grassroots activist energy from both sides, with prominent endorsements, increased campaign spending and intensified voter turnout efforts. The result impacts the balance of power in the House, where Republicans currently hold 219 seats to the Democrats’ 213, a lead that could face new challenges from upcoming resignations and further special elections.
...What To Know
Epps, an Army veteran, won the special election in Tennessee’s 7th District with a lead of approximately 9 percentage points over Democratic state legislator Behn. The Associated Press called the race for Van Epps on Tuesday night with 99 percent of the vote counted and Van Epps holding a 53.9 percent to 45.0 percent lead—a result separating the candidates by just over 15,000 votes.
Why Did Tennessee Have a Special Election?
The special election was prompted by the retirement of former U.S. Republican Representative Mark Green, who moved on to a job in the private sector earlier this year.
What People Are Saying
House Republican Congressman Byron Donalds of Florida, on X: "Congratulations @MattForTN on winning election to Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District & welcome to the @HouseGOP! Thank you to the thousands of Tennesseans who showed-up during this Special Election. This is a huge win for America & helps us to pass our America First Agenda."
Trump, on Truth Social: "Congratulations to Matt Van Epps on his BIG Congressional WIN in the Great State of Tennessee. The Radical Left Democrats threw everything at him, including Millions of Dollars. Another great night for the Republican Party!!! President DJT"
House Republicans, on X: "Welcome to the @HouseGOP, Congressman-elect Matt Van Epps!"
House Republican Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, on X: "Van Epps wins."
This is a developing story that will be updated with additional information.
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