By Hannah Parry, Amanda Castro, and Simon Crerar
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Democrat Aftyn Behn is already teasing another Congressional run after losing in Tuesday's special election for Tennessee's 7th congressional district to Republican Matt Van Epps.
Speaking on CNN, Behn said that she was planning to call her rival to congratulate him, and to let him know that she was looking forward "to maybe competing with him next year."
When pressed if that meant she was leaving the door open to run again, Behn responded, "Yeah, absolutely. I mean, obviously, I have to rest for a few days and circle back with my team, but we've we've run an amazing race, all things considered. The deck was stacked against us, especially in the deep red South. And we've narrow the margin. And for me, that is that is a celebration worth having."
What to Know:
- The Tennessee race had tightened in recent weeks, drawing national attention as both parties fought for control of former Republican Rep. Mark Green's seat just west of Nashville.
- As the results rolled in on Tuesday evening, the candidates were neck-and-neck with Behn wrestling an early lead from Van Epps, only for the Republican to take it back by less than a percentage point, before pulling ahead by nine points to be announced the victor.
- President Donald Trump congratulated Van Epps on his "BIG Congressional WIN" in a Truth Social post, adding, "The Radical Left Democrats threw everything at him, including Millions of Dollars. Another great night for the Republican Party!!!"
- Top GOP figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Trump, had campaigned for Van Epps in the run up to the election, while former Vice President Kamala Harris backed Behn.
- Green resigned in July to enter the private sector, leaving the seat open. He had won reelection in 2024 with nearly 60% of the vote.
- The district has historically leaned Republican, with Trump carrying it by 22 points in the 2024 presidential election.
- The race came amid Democratic momentum in off‑year elections, including wins in New Jersey, Virginia and New York City.
Newsweek's live blog is closed.
Dec 03, 2025 at 02:38 AM EST
Republicans on track for a ‘difficult’ midterms – analyst
The trend of growing support for the Democrats illustrated in the special election for Tennessee's 7th congressional district, even though it was won by Republican Matt Van Epps, points to a difficult midterms for the Republicans next year, according to CNN political analyst Ron Brownstein.
“Overall this is another indication - along with the weak approval rating for President Trump, the strong Democratic results in New Jersey and Virginia - that right now, Republicans are on track for a difficult midterms,” Brownstein said.
“President Trump's approval rating is now consistently running around 40 percent or even below, and when a president’s approval rating is that weak his party faces problems pretty much everywhere” he said
Brownstein said the trend indicated that every Republican is at risk outside “the kind of MAGA heartland where Trump is still popular.”
“If you look at all the districts that Trump won by 13 points or less - which was the swing we saw from ‘24 to ‘25 in this race - that would be more than enough for Democrats to win the House and even enough for them to win the Senate,” he said.
“This is just another piece of evidence pointing toward Republicans facing a difficult midterms unless voters’ assessment so what they’re getting out of the Trump presidency improves significantly between now and next November.”
Dec 03, 2025 at 01:34 AM EST
‘Big rebuke for Trump,’ former Obama adviser says
Dan Pfeiffer, a former adviser to President Barack Obama’s White House, said Republicans will be relieved but nevertheless the Tennessee result is "terrible news” for the GOP.
“Republicans will publicly breathe a sigh of relief, but a 13-point shift to the Ds in a nationalized race with midterm-level turnout is absolutely terrible news for the Republicans and a big rebuke of Trump,” Pfeiffer said in a post on X.
Dec 03, 2025 at 12:03 AM EST
House Majority PAC calls relatively close election results a ‘five-alarm fire’ for GOP
The Democratic-aligned House Majority PAC warned on Tuesday that the relatively close results in the Tennessee special election “should be a five-alarm fire for the GOP.”
Matt Van Epps won the historically red district with a 9-point margin, but as the results poured in, the candidates were often neck-and-neck.
“Tonight’s results make it clear: No House Republican’s reelection should be considered safe next November,” PAC spokesperson CJ Warnke told CNN.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:55 PM EST
WATCH: Van Epps gives victory speech to supporter as he vows to be their ‘fighter’
MATT VAN EPPS: “The military taught me what it means to be part of a team, to trust the person next to you, to stay mission focused, and to never leave anyone behind. That's the same spirit I'll take to Washington.” pic.twitter.com/E4hGohvlSg
— Fox News (@FoxNews) December 3, 2025
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:45 PM EST
RNC chair touts Tennessee victory as evidence voters are rejecting Democrat’s ‘radical platform’
The Republican National Committee chair Joe Gruters has pointed to Matt Van Epps' victory in Tuesday's Tennessee special election as evidence that voters are rejecting what he called the Democrats' “radical platform.”
“Voters didn’t just reject Aftyn Behn and her anti-Tennessee, abolish-the-police agenda − they rejected the Democrats’ entire radical platform,” Gruters said on Tuesday evening.
“While Democrats stood united behind Behn and her far-left ideas, Republicans stood behind Matt Van Epps, a patriot who loves his state and loves this nation,” Gruters said. “This win makes one thing clear: voters want leaders who deliver for hardworking Americans, not far-left candidates who hate the very people they claim to represent.”
The race between Van Epps and Democrat Behn had narrowed in recent weeks and as results rolled in on Tuesday, the candidates were often neck-and-neck, until Van Epps pulled ahead by almost nine points. The lead is significantly lower than President Donald Trump’s 22-point victory in the district in the 2024 presidential election.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:35 PM EST
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.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:26 PM EST
MAGA reacts to Tennessee special election results as Van Epps wins
MAGA Republicans are reacting to the outcome of Tennessee's special election results, praising Republican candidate Matt Van Epps for defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn.
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.
Read in full: MAGA Reacts to Tennessee Special Election Results as Van Epps Wins
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:10 PM EST
IN PICTURES: Van Epps announces victory at watch party
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Dec 02, 2025 at 11:00 PM EST
IN PICTURES: Behn remains upbeat as she addresses supporters after election loss
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Dec 02, 2025 at 10:40 PM EST
Behn reveals what she and Van Epps spoke about after she calls him to concede
Aftyn Behn told a crowd of her supporters what she and Republican Congressman-elect Matt Van Epps had discussed, when she called him to coneded.
Behn said that she'd had "one question" for Van Epps during the call.
"What will define what happens next?" she said she asked him. "Do not let the affordable care act subsidies expire. Do not raise healthcare costs for working families in Tennessee."
Behn made affordability and healthcare key tenets of her campaign. The 36-year-old Democrat has already hinted that she plans to run again after Democrats made significant gains in Nashville during this election.
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:29 PM EST
Republicans celebrate Tennessee victory
Republicans are celebrating the election of GOP candidate Matt Van Epps on Tuesday evening.
Van Epps won Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District with an almost 9-point lead over Democrat Behn, with 99 percent of the votes counted.
"Welcome to the House GOP," the House Republicans X account wrote.
Rep. Byron Donalds added, "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," he added in a post on X.
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:18 PM EST
DNC Chair Martin says Tennessee’s special election results show ‘Republicans are on the ropes’
DNC Chair Ken Martin said that even though the Democrat candidate lost in tonight's Tennessee special election, the results showed that the GOP was on the defense.
“What happened tonight in Tennessee makes it clear: Democrats are on offense and Republicans are on the ropes," he said in a statement, after Republican Matt Van Epps defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn.
Martin said that Behn's gains in the typically red state, which Trump won by 22 points last year, were "historic and a flashing warning sign for Republicans heading into the midterms."
"Aftyn centered her campaign on lowering grocery, housing, and health care costs for Tennessee families," he said. "Her Republican opponent ran his campaign focused on Donald Trump, and he had to get bailed out by a massive Republican spending onslaught to barely hold this traditionally safe Republican seat. The fact that Republicans spent millions to protect this Trump +22 district and still lost so much ground should have the GOP shaking in their boots. Democrats are all gas and no brakes as we head into next year, organizing everywhere and competing in elections all across the country.”
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:11 PM EST
Van Epps says Trump was key to his success
Matt Van Epps has credited President Donald Trump for his victory in Tuesday's special election in Tennessee's 7th district.
Van Epps took to the stage to give his victory speech after defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn.
“This is just an incredible win," he told the watch party. "Tonight you sent a message loud and clear: The people of Middle Tennessee stand with President Donald J. Trump."
"Running FROM Trump is how to you lose. Running WITH Trump is how you win," he added.
Van Epps said the presidential endorsement had "made the difference and I will never forget it."
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:04 PM EST
Matt Van Epps reacts to his Tennessee victory
Republican Matt Van Epps has celebrated defeating Aftyn Behn, a state representative, in Tuesday's special election for Tennessee's 7th congressional district.
The race had tightened in recent weeks, drawing national attention as both parties fought for control of former Republican Rep. Mark Green's seat just west of Nashville.
In a post on X, alongside a photo of himself with President Donald Trump, the veteran wrote, "Thank you Tennessee."
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:58 PM EST
Behn teases another run after Tennessee special election narrow defeat
Behn, a Democrat, has teased another Congressional run after narrowly losing to Republican Van Epps in historically red Tennessee on Tuesday.
Speaking with CNN, Behn said that she was planning to call her rival to congratulate him, and to let him know that both he, and she, "ran a good race."
"And, I look forward to maybe competing with him next year," added.
When pressed if that meant she was leaving the door open to run again, Behn responded, "Yeah, absolutely.
"I mean, obviously, I have to rest for a few days and circle back with my team, but we've we've run an amazing race, all things considered. The deck was stacked against us, especially in the deep red South. And we've narrow the margin. And for me, that is that is a celebration worth having."
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:52 PM EST
Behn reacts to tonight’s election results: ‘Democrats can compete’
Behn said that the Democrat gains in Tennessee showed that "Democrats can compete" even in the red south with a big turn out.
Speaking on CNN, shortly before the result was officially called, Behn celebrated the successes her campaign had made, as she said they "overperformed in places" they needed to, and lost less than feared in other places.
"This is a testament that, Democrats can, compete in high turnout elections, because we're seeing that type of high turnout," she said.
"As the president noted, he won this district by 22 points last year. I think people might be surprised to see that we've narrowed the margin."
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:39 PM EST
Van Epps wins Tennessee special election by four-point lead
Republican candidate Matt Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran, has narrowly defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn, a state representative, in Tuesday's special election for Tennessee's 7th congressional district. The race had tightened in recent weeks, drawing national attention as both parties fought for control of former Republican Rep. Mark Green's seat just west of Nashville.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:28 PM EST
Trump congratulates Van Epps on his ‘big Congressional win’
President Donald Trump has offered his congratulations to Republican Matt Van Epps, "on his BIG Congressional WIN" in the Tennessee special election on Tuesday.
"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!!!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:14 PM EST
Decision Desk HQ projects Matt Van Epps to win election
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:59 PM EST
Van Epps pulls ahead again in extremely tight race
Van Epps has pulled back into a very narrow lead in the Tennessee special election.
The Republican is up by less than a percentage point, with 49.6 points, compared to Behn's 49.3.
But with such a narrow margin, and only 55 percent votes counted, it is anyone's race.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:49 PM EST
Behn is already outperforming Kamala Harris compared to 2024
Aftyn Behn is outperforming former vice president Kamala Harris during her presidential run in 2024.
The Tennessee Democrat has outperformed Harris' results by between 16-22 points in the early vote, with 44 percent of the ballots counted.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:40 PM EST
Behn takes 7-point lead over Van Epps
Democrat Aftyn Behn has taken an early lead over Republican candidate Matt Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran, with over 40 percent of the votes counted so far.
Behn has a 7-point lead, with 52 percent of the vote, compared to Van Epps' 46.
The Democrat was able to recover Van Epps' initial lead by 8.40 p.m. ET.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:37 PM EST
Key county to watch in Tennessee election
The key county to watch in Tennessee's special election on Tuesday is Montgomery County.
Trump won Montgomery by 18 points last year, however, Democrat Aftyn Behn is currently leading Republican candidate Matt Van Epps by 3 points so far, with 49 percent of the vote in.
In 2018, Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn was able to win the county by narrowly defeating former Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen by just two points.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:29 PM EST
Behn addresses her negative comments about Nashville
Democrat Aftyn Behn has addressed her previous criticism of Nashville after President Donald Trump and Republicans accused her of hating the city.
In a 2020 podcast, Behn had said: “I hate the city, I hate the bachelorettes, I hate the pedal taverns, I hate country music, I hate all of the things that make Nashville apparently an ‘it’ city to the rest of the country. … But I hate it.”
Behn, who lives in Nashville, has acknowledged getting annoyed by those parts of the tourist scene, but said "every Nashvillian does," adding that Nashville is “my home.”
“These comments were mischaracterized and taken out of context,” she told Newsweek in an exclusive interview on Monday, referring to remarks she made years earlier about Nashville. “It was a time when I was discussing why I decided to get involved in local elections… I’m a state representative that represents downtown Nashville, and I couldn’t think of a greater honor than representing the city that I love.”
She also said that Trump's rhetoric, accusing her of being a radical who “hates Christianity, will take away your guns, wants Open Borders, Transgender for everybody, men in women’s sports, and openly disdains Country music" over her comments, was a sign he was panicking.
“President Trump is saying all these things because he doesn’t have a plan to address the rising cost of health care and to ensure that working Tennesseans are able to afford health care, groceries and utilities,” Behn added.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:22 PM EST
What do Tennessee voters say?
Voters in Tennessee are divided on who they want to see replace to replace former Republican Rep. Mark Green.
Patricia Hawkins, 74, told Associated Press that she voted for Democrat Aftyn Behn, a state representative, due to her focus on affordability. She also said that she wants to use her vote to send President Donald Trump a “reality check.”
“Prices are too high,” Hawkins said. “And gas is too high. ... And it’s affecting every industry.”
Behn has repeatedly condemned Trump’s tariffs and tax cut legislation, both of which Van Epps supports, while focusing on pocketbook issues.
Meanwhile, Trump supporter Anthony Bordonaro, 37, told AP that he wanted to support the president's agenda, but he had also felt extra motivated to vote for Republican candidate Matt Van Epps, after hearing Behn's anti-Nashville comments.
“I just didn’t really like what I was hearing about the other candidate not liking Nashville,” he said.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:09 PM EST
Matt Van Epps takes early lead with just 3% of vote counted
Republican candidate Matt Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran, has taken an early lead over Democrat Aftyn Behn, a state representative, with just 3 percent of the vote counted.
According to AP's results reporting for Tennessee 7th Congressional District Special, so far Van Epps has more than 70 points, with Behn at 26, although with such few votes in, these figures will inevitably change.
The latest Emerson College Polling/The Hill survey had Van Epps with a 2-point lead over Behn.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:02 PM EST
Polls have closed
The polls in Tennessee's 7th congressional district have now closed.
Dec 02, 2025 at 08:01 PM EST
Aftyn Behn branded the ‘AOC of Tennessee’
Democrat Aftyn Behn, a progressive, has been labeled as the “AOC of Tennessee" by President Donald Trump and other Republicans in the run up to Tuesday's election.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, a progressive Democrat and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, unseated a centrist Democrat in the 2018 midterms. She has then become the face of the progressive movement with her, and independent Senator Bernie Sanders' Fighting Oligarchy tour attracting tens of thousands of Americans. AOC has also faced fierce criticism from Trump and Republicans.
Dec 02, 2025 at 07:35 PM EST
WATCH: Behn tests Democrats’ momentum in Tennessee special election
Dec 02, 2025 at 07:19 PM EST
Less than an hour to go until polls close
There is less than an hour left to vote in Tennessee's 7th congressional district special election.
Polls close at 7 p.m. local time, or 8 p.m. ET.
Some of the early results are expected to be announced within minutes of the polls closing, with a more conclusive result expected by the end of the evening.
Dec 02, 2025 at 07:05 PM EST
How Gen Z hurt Republicans in Nov. 4 elections, as GOP fears grow they could lose Tennessee special election
In New York City, 34-year-old Zohran Mamdani became the city’s first Muslim mayor after defeating Trump-backed independent Andrew Cuomo in a race defined by record youth turnout. In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger secured the governorship with a decisive lead over Republican Winsome Earle-Sears, while Mikie Sherrill prevailed in New Jersey following a campaign centered on affordability and public safety.
Meanwhile, California voters passed Proposition 50, a redistricting measure championed by Governor Gavin Newsom that could flip several Republican-held congressional seats.
Together, the results point to a growing generational realignment: voters under 30 — who turned out in unusually high numbers — overwhelmingly backed Democratic candidates. CNN Exit polls show that 70 percent of 18-29-year-olds voted for Spanberger in Virginia. And in New Jersey, 68 percent voted for Sherrill. Meanwhile, in New York, 78 percent of the youngest voters voted for Mamdani. In California, 79 percent of 18-29-year-olds supported Proposition 50.
The results suggested that the Democratic Party has revived its appeal with Gen Z voters — even young men.
With Democrat Aftyn Behn, a state representative, rapidly closing the Republican candidate Matt Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran, ahead of today's special election in Tennessee's 7th congressional district, there are growing fears among Republicans that the pattern could continue and they could lose a historically red seat in the state.
Dec 02, 2025 at 06:42 PM EST
Republicans fear doomsday scenario in Tennessee special election
Republicans have urged people to vote in the Tennessee special election, suggesting they may be concerned the party is poised to lose.
On social media, GOP figures, including President Donald Trump, urged Republicans to vote for Van Epps after an Emerson College/The Hill survey, found Van Epps is leading Democrat Behn 48 percent to 46 percent among likely voters, with five percent undecided and two percent backing third-party candidates.
Republican figures raised concerns about the race. Eric Daugherty, a conservative journalist, wrote on X: "Republicans MUST win this. Big issues if we don't."
On Truth Social, Trump implored "all America First Patriots in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, who haven’t voted yet, to please GET OUT AND VOTE for MAGA Warrior Matt Van Epps.You can win this Election for Matt! PLEASE VOTE FOR MATT VAN EPPS, who has my Complete and Total Endorsement," he added, saying that Van Epps would "never let you down."
Speaking to Newsweek, Calvin Jillson, a politics professor at Southern Methodist University in Texas, said: “Republicans from Trump on down are intently focused on the upcoming special election in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district. This is a bad sign in and of itself because Republican Mark Green won the district by 21 points and Trump won statewide by 30 points in 2024.
“Democrat overperformance in the Virginia and New Jersey governor races a few weeks ago, and recent polling suggesting a tightening race in the 7th, have Democrats hopeful and Republicans fearful. Republicans should pull this one out; it is a deep red district, but if they don’t, it will further fix the narrative that 2026 could be a GOP bloodbath.”
Dec 02, 2025 at 06:23 PM EST
Who will win Tennessee special election? What polls show
The Republican Party is likely to win the Tennessee special election, though perhaps by a tighter margin than initially expected, according to recent polls.
Aftyn Behn, a state legislator, is standing against Republican Matt Van Epps to fill a seat left vacant by former Representative Mark Greene, who resigned from the House earlier this year.
Polls, betting odds and political analysis indicate Van Epps will likely win the seat but there have been signs that support for Behn is growing.
"Public polling in a low-turnout special election around the Holidays is unreliable and inaccurate," a Van Epps spokesperson told Newsweek. "What is clear: there are more Republicans than Democrats in this district and all efforts remain focused on reaching, motivating, and turning out Republicans to vote today or on Tuesday, December 2nd. The smaller number of Democrats in this district are intensely fired up, but as more Republicans tune in and understand the stakes of the race and the craziness of the Democrat nominee, momentum has shifted toward Trump-endorsed Matt Van Epps. He will win on Tuesday, December 2nd."
Behn said in a statement provided to Newsweek: "Matt Van Epps and Washington Republicans are panicking because they know Tennessee families are suffering under their failed economic policies that are raising their costs, while they lower taxes for their billionaire donors. My affordability message—to lower grocery costs, housing costs, and health care costs—is resonating with voters of all political stripes, which is why this race is now tied."
Read in full: Who Will Win Tennessee Special Election? What Polls Show
Dec 02, 2025 at 06:10 PM EST
Tennessee Republican blames ‘home-grown Marxists’ for tightening race between Van Epps, Behn
Republican Rep. Tim Burchett has blamed what he called "home-grown Marxists" in Tennessee for the fact that Democrat Aftyn Behn has been rapidly closing the gap with Republican candidate Matt Van Epps for a typically red seat.
Burchett told Fox News that he didn't blame people moving to Tennessee from blue states like California, but said, "it's our own home-grown Marxists."
"We're one vote series away from losing the Republic," he said. "This is the proverbial canary in the cage. If Matt can't carry this thing, we're in trouble."
The Tennessee representative added that "Republicans are asleep at the switch" when it comes to this election.
America’s political spotlight is on Tennessee as voters in the 7th congressional district head to the polls Tuesday, December 2, for a special election to replace former Republican Rep. Mark Green. The race has tightened in recent weeks, drawing national attention as both parties fight for control of a seat just west of Nashville.
Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran, leads Behn, a state representative, by 2 points in the latest Emerson College Polling/The Hill survey—within the margin of error.
Dec 02, 2025 at 05:56 PM EST
How long is vote counting expected to take?
In the 2024 general election, the results in the 7th District congressional race were tabulated by 12.36 a.m. ET, with more than 99 percent of total votes counted.
The first results came from Perry County, reported by AP at 8.03 p.m. ET.
In the October 7 special primaries, AP first reported results in the Republican and Democrat primaries at about 8:05 p.m. ET from Perry County, about five minutes after polls closed.
The vote count was completed in both races at 10:28 p.m. ET.
Dec 02, 2025 at 05:40 PM EST
Kamala Harris urges Tennessee residents to get out and vote
Former Vice President Kamala Harris has urged Tennesseans to get out and vote in Tuesday's special election, as she said, "The power is with the people."
"If you live in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, head to IWillVote.com to make sure you know when and where to vote today," Harris wrote in a post on X.
Dec 02, 2025 at 05:25 PM EST
David Hogg turns out to campaign for Behn
Former Democratic National Committee (DNC) co-vice chair David Hogg, a survivor of the Parkland shooting, has been out campaigning for Aftyn Behn on election day.
Hogg shared a smiling photo of himself with a crowd of Behn supporters, and another photo of himself holding up a campaign leaflet for Behn.
"It's Election Day for Aftyn Behn in her run for Congress in Tennessee!! Be sure to get out and for her," he captioned the photo.
Dec 02, 2025 at 05:10 PM EST
Who is Aftyn Behn? What to know
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Aftyn Behn, a Tennessee state representative since 2023, is the Democratic nominee in Tuesday’s special election for the state’s 7th congressional district. Behn, 36, first entered the legislature after winning a special election to succeed the late Rep. Bill Beck, defeating interim appointee Anthony Davis in the primary and securing more than 75 percent of the vote in the general election.
Before holding office, Behn worked in social services and as a healthcare organizer with the Tennessee Justice Center. In the legislature, she has advanced proposals to repeal the state’s grocery sales tax, codify the Equal Rights Amendment in Tennessee’s constitution, and partnered with Republican colleagues on workplace harassment reforms. She also drew attention in 2025 for confronting federal immigration agents during patrols in Nashville.
Behn currently serves on the Agriculture & Natural Resources, Transportation, Naming & Designating, and Disaster Relief committees. She won the Democratic primary in October against fellow lawmakers Vincent Dixie and Bo Mitchell, as well as businessman Darden Copeland. She now faces Republican Matt Van Epps in a race triggered by the resignation of GOP Rep. Mark Green.
Dec 02, 2025 at 04:55 PM EST
Who is Matt Van Epps? What we know
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Matt Van Epps, 42, has quickly risen from relative obscurity to become a central figure in Tennessee politics. Backed by former President Donald Trump, billionaire‑funded PACs, and both current and former state governors, he has emerged as the Republican nominee in the closely watched special election for the 7th congressional district.
A native of suburban Cleveland, Van Epps moved to Tennessee after a decade in the U.S. Army. A decorated combat helicopter pilot, he served nine tours in Afghanistan and Iraq and graduated from West Point. He now holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Tennessee Army National Guard.
Beyond his military career, Van Epps worked in state government, including roles in Veterans Services and Transportation, and later led the Department of General Services. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, he served as a strategic planner in Tennessee’s Unified Command Group, helping shape the state’s response. His role earned him the nickname “Tennessee’s Fauci” from opponents in the Republican primary.
Van Epps’ rapid ascent, bolstered by national GOP support, has made him a key player in a race that could influence the balance of power in Congress.
Dec 02, 2025 at 04:40 PM EST
Trump backs Van Epp, even as his own approval rating drops to new low
President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen five percentage points to 36 percent - the lowest rating of his second second.
His disapproval rating also broke a new record, as it rose to 60 percent, according to a new Gallup poll taken between November 3 to 25, amid the longest government shutdown in history. Trump's lowest ever approval rating was in his first term, in 2021, when it fell to 34 percent.
Meanwhile, approval of Republicans has also fallen seven points to 84 percent.
The low rating comes as Tennessee voters in the 7th congressional district head to the polls Tuesday, for a special election to replace former Republican Rep. Mark Green. The race has tightened in recent weeks, drawing national attention as both parties fight for control of a seat just west of Nashville.
Dec 02, 2025 at 04:25 PM EST
What time do polls close?
The polls are currently open for the special election in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District.
Polls across the district close at 7 p.m. local time, or 8 p.m. ET.
Initial results are expected to come in shortly after polls close, with a decisive outcome expected by the end of the evening.
Dec 02, 2025 at 04:10 PM EST
Trump urges his supporters to vote for Van Epps, slams Behn who he said ‘disdains country music’
President Donald Trump urged his Tennessee supporters to go out and vote for Republican Matt Van Epps in today's 7th District special election, as he laid into Democrat candidate Aftyn Behn.
"I am asking all America First Patriots in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, who haven’t voted yet, to please GET OUT AND VOTE on Election Day, Tuesday, December 2nd, for a phenomenal Candidate, Matt Van Epps," Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday.
Trump criticized Behn, a state legislator and former progressive organizer who is closing the distance between herself and Van Epps, claiming that she "hates Christianity" and "openly disdains country music."
"Matt is fighting against a woman who hates Christianity, will take away your guns, wants Open Borders, Transgender for everybody, men in women’s sports, and openly disdains Country music," he wrote. "She said all of these things precisely, and without question — IT’S ON TAPE! Do not take this Race for granted."
Trump added that Van Epps had his "complete and total endorsement" as he again urged people to "get out and vote for Matt Van Epps."
The Tennessee seat, vacated by Republican Mark Green in July, has long been a conservative stronghold. Yet a recent Emerson College poll shows Van Epps leading Democrat Aftyn Behn by just two points, a margin far slimmer than Trump’s 22‑point victory in the district last year.
Dec 02, 2025 at 03:54 PM EST
National heavyweights clash in Tennessee House race
Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District special election has attracted unprecedented national attention, with Republican Matt Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn locked in a surprisingly competitive race in the heavily conservative seat.
The contest, triggered by the resignation of GOP Rep. Mark Green, has drawn millions in outside spending. MAGA Inc. invested more than $1 million in support of Van Epps, marking its first campaign expenditure since last year’s presidential race. Democrats matched that figure through the House Majority PAC, backing Behn with a surge of advertising and high‑profile appearances.
National figures, including President Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Al Gore, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez, have campaigned for their respective candidates, underscoring the race’s symbolic weight ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The district, redrawn in 2022 to dilute Nashville’s Democratic influence, has historically favored Republicans by wide margins. Still, Democrats argue that narrowing the gap would signal momentum in red territory, while Republicans insist they can hold the seat despite concerns over turnout during the holiday week.
Dec 02, 2025 at 03:40 PM EST
WATCH: Aftyn Behn tests Democrats’ momentum in Tennessee special election
Dec 02, 2025 at 03:27 PM EST
AP reports fast results in 7th District races
The Oct. 7 special primaries in the 7th Congressional District were tallied swiftly, with the Associated Press reporting the first results from Perry County at 8:05 p.m. ET—just minutes after polls closed. Final updates came from Humphreys County at 10:28 p.m. ET, completing the count in both Democratic and Republican contests.
In the November 2024 general election, the AP again moved quickly, releasing initial results from Perry County at 8:03 p.m. ET. The tabulation concluded at 12:36 a.m. ET, with more than 99 percent of votes counted across the district.
Dec 02, 2025 at 03:14 PM EST
Early voting shapes special election in 7th District
The 7th Congressional District, home to about 466,000 registered voters, saw strong participation in the November 2024 general election, with turnout reaching 69 percent—well above the 41 percent recorded during the 2022 midterms.
Election data show that early and absentee voting played a decisive role. Across the 14 counties fully or partially within the district, 73 percent of ballots in 2024 were cast before Election Day, compared with 51 percent in the midterms two years earlier.
Ahead of the upcoming special election, more than 84,000 ballots had already been submitted by the close of early voting on Nov. 26, underscoring the district’s reliance on early participation to shape outcomes.
Dec 02, 2025 at 02:59 PM EST
Explaining the different types of U.S. elections
American voters participate in three main types of elections: general, primary and special elections. Each plays a distinct role in the democratic process.
General elections are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. They determine federal, state and local officials, including members of Congress, governors and city leaders. In odd‑numbered years, these contests are often referred to as municipal elections, while every four years they include the presidential race.
Primary elections allow political parties to select nominees for the general election. States set their own rules, resulting in variations such as open primaries, where voters can choose candidates from any party; closed primaries, which restrict voting to registered party members; and blanket or “jungle” primaries, where all candidates appear on one ballot regardless of party.
Special elections occur outside the regular cycle to fill unexpected vacancies or decide urgent ballot measures. They may be scheduled to replace officials who resign, die or are removed from office, or to resolve issues such as bond initiatives or recalls.
Together, these elections ensure that citizens have multiple opportunities to shape government at every level.
Dec 02, 2025 at 02:46 PM EST
Why do special elections happen?
Special elections are contests held outside the regular election calendar to address urgent political needs. Unlike general elections, which occur on a fixed schedule, special elections are called when circumstances demand immediate voter input.
Common triggers include filling vacancies caused by resignation, death or removal from office; deciding on ballot measures such as school bonds or constitutional amendments; and recall elections, where voters determine whether an official should be removed before their term ends.
For example, if a U.S. senator dies mid‑term, state law may require a special election to fill the seat. Local governments may also call special elections to approve funding measures, such as school construction bonds. In some cases, citizens can initiate a recall election to remove a mayor or other official.
These elections ensure that urgent decisions are made promptly and that voters retain direct control over representation and policy outside the normal cycle.
Dec 02, 2025 at 02:30 PM EST
WATCH: Aftyn Behn pushes back at Trump ahead of Tennessee special election
Dec 02, 2025 at 02:16 PM EST
Trump rallies GOP in tight Tennessee House race
Trump called into a Nashville rally Monday to boost Republican Matt Van Epps in Tennessee’s 7th District special election, underscoring GOP concerns over a race that has narrowed in recent weeks.
“The whole world is watching Tennessee right now,” Trump told supporters via speakerphone held by House Speaker Mike Johnson, who framed the contest as a bellwether for next year’s midterms.
The seat, vacated by Republican Mark Green in July, has long been a conservative stronghold. Yet a recent Emerson College poll shows Van Epps leading Democrat Aftyn Behn by just two points, a margin far slimmer than Trump’s 22‑point victory in the district last year.
Behn, a state legislator and former progressive organizer, has campaigned on affordability and voter frustration with Washington, while Van Epps, a West Point graduate and Army veteran, has leaned on his Trump endorsement and cost‑cutting themes.
Millions in outside spending and visits from national figures—including Kamala Harris for Behn and Trump for Van Epps—have turned the race into a proxy fight over the GOP’s fragile House majority. With votes set to be counted tonight, the outcome will offer an early measure of Trump’s influence and the political climate heading into 2026.
Dec 02, 2025 at 02:02 PM EST
GOP leaders brace for Tennessee special election outcome
House Republican leaders are working to calm internal concerns as their party faces an unexpectedly competitive special election in Tennessee’s 7th District.
NRCC Chair Richard Hudson told colleagues in a closed‑door meeting Tuesday that GOP nominee Matt Van Epps would prevail, but cautioned that “special elections are special,” according to attendees. The reassurance did little to ease anxiety among members, who noted the race should not have been close in a district Donald Trump carried by more than 20 points.
National Republicans have poured resources into the contest to shore up Van Epps against Democrat Aftyn Behn, with millions in outside spending flooding the district. Still, some lawmakers warned that even a narrow win could rattle the conference heading into the 2026 midterms.
“If our victory margin is single digits, the conference may come unhinged,” one senior Republican said, adding that a loss would be catastrophic.
Dec 02, 2025 at 01:49 PM EST
Tennessee’s 7th District race tightens as parties pour in resources
Republican Matt Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn are locked in a competitive battle for Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, a seat long considered safely Republican.
Democratic strategists say GOP groups have gone “all in” to keep Behn out of Congress, bolstering Van Epps with culture‑war messaging aimed at energizing the party’s base. “The Republican groups had to come in and prop [Van Epps] up,” one strategist told Politico.
Despite the district’s conservative lean, a new Emerson College/The Hill poll shows Van Epps leading Behn by just two points, underscoring the race’s potential to signal broader national trends ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Dec 02, 2025 at 01:35 PM EST
Trump and GOP leaders intensify push in Tennessee’s 7th District
On the eve of Tennessee’s 7th District special election, President Donald Trump phoned into campaign stops to rally support for Republican Matt Van Epps, underscoring the high stakes of a race in a district long considered safely conservative.
At a restaurant in White House, Tennessee, House Speaker Mike Johnson broadcast Trump’s call on speakerphone as Van Epps thanked him for his endorsement. Trump repeated attacks on Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn, calling her “anti‑Christian and anti‑country music,” a line Johnson and Van Epps said resonated with voters.
The contest, triggered by Rep. Mark Green’s resignation earlier this year, has become unexpectedly competitive. Polls show Van Epps with only a narrow lead over Behn, a progressive activist turned state legislator. National figures from both parties have poured into the district, and millions of dollars in outside spending have flooded the campaign.
Dec 02, 2025 at 01:22 PM EST
Tennessee Special Election Day: Final polls, predictions
Republican candidate Matt Van Epps is likely to win the special election in Tennessee, according to the latest polls and betting odds.
Vann Epps is standing against Aftyn Behn, a Democratic state legislator, to fill a seat left vacant by former Representative Mark Greene, who resigned from the House earlier this year.
Polls, betting odds and political analysis indicate Van Epps will likely win the seat, but there have been signs that support for Behn is growing.
Newsweek reached out to representatives for Behn and Van Epps by email to comment on this story outside of normal business hours.
The election has attracted national attention because the GOP has a slim majority in the House of Representatives with 219 seats to the Democrats' 213. The resignation of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, in January will bring that to 218-213. If the party loses a handful of seats in upcoming elections and the midterms, it will affect the Trump administration's ability to push through its agenda.
Continue reading: Tennessee Special Election Day: Final Polls, Predictions
Dec 02, 2025 at 01:08 PM EST
Tennessee special election could tighten GOP House majority
Voters in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district head to the polls Tuesday in a special election that could impact Republicans’ slim control of the U.S. House. The seat, vacated by GOP Rep. Mark Green in July, is being contested by Republican Matt Van Epps, a former state official, and Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn.
The district, which includes parts of Nashville, has long leaned Republican—Trump carried it by 22 points in 2024—but recent polling shows the race within the margin of error. An upset by Behn would narrow the GOP’s 219‑213 majority and add momentum to Democrats, who have already overperformed in several special elections this year.
Campaign finance filings show Behn outraised Van Epps by nearly $240,000 through mid‑November, while super PACs from both parties have poured millions into the contest. Republicans have attacked Behn over past comments about policing, while she has focused her campaign on cost‑of‑living issues.
The outcome comes as other vacancies and retirements loom, leaving the House majority in flux ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Dec 02, 2025 at 12:54 PM EST
Van Epps vs. Behn: high-stakes battle in Tennessee’s 7th District
What has long been a reliably Republican seat in Middle Tennessee is now the focus of an unusually competitive special election. The 7th Congressional District, west of Nashville, was vacated earlier this year when GOP Rep. Mark Green resigned.
Although former President Donald Trump carried the district by 22 points in 2024, national figures from both parties have poured resources into the race. Republican nominee Matt Van Epps has campaigned with Trump through a tele‑rally, while Democrats have rallied behind state Rep. Aftyn Behn. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin joined canvassing efforts for Behn in recent weeks.
Dec 02, 2025 at 12:41 PM EST
Behn pushes back on GOP attacks over Nashville remarks
Republicans are spotlighting comments Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn made in 2020 about Nashville, portraying them as evidence she is out of step with the district. On a podcast five years ago, Behn said she “hated” the city’s country music scene, pedal taverns and bachelorette parties.
Behn addressed the remarks in a recent interview with civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton, saying they were taken out of context. “As a Nashvillian, I think we all get a little annoyed with the tourists that come to town, but that doesn’t mean I don’t love my city,” she said.
She later told Newsweek that the comments reflected her frustration with Nashville’s tourism industry and were part of her motivation to enter politics. “Instead of complaining, I decided to jump in and run for office. I’m a state representative for downtown Nashville, and I couldn’t think of a greater honor than representing the city I love,” Behn said.
Dec 02, 2025 at 12:18 PM EST
Tennessee special election tests GOP stronghold as Behn challenges Van Epps
President Donald Trump has made a late push to rally voters in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, underscoring the stakes of a special election that has become unexpectedly competitive. Trump joined a rally by speakerphone Monday, telling supporters, “The whole world is watching Tennessee right now… We have to win this seat.”
The district, a Republican stronghold since 1983, was vacated in July when Rep. Mark Green resigned to enter the private sector. GOP candidate Matt Van Epps, a military veteran and former state official, faces Democrat Aftyn Behn, a state legislator who won a narrow primary.
A recent poll shows Van Epps ahead by just two points, with undecided voters potentially able to swing the outcome. Early voting has leaned toward Behn, while Republicans are counting on Election Day turnout to hold the seat.
The contest carries national implications. Republicans currently hold a slim 219‑213 majority in the House, and a Democratic win would further tighten Speaker Mike Johnson’s margin as Congress faces looming budget deadlines. Both parties have poured more than $1 million into the race, reflecting its significance as the final major contest of the year.
Dec 02, 2025 at 12:04 PM EST
Tennessee’s 7th district special election draws national spotlight
Tennessee voters head to the polls Tuesday in a special election to fill the 7th U.S. House District seat vacated by Republican Mark Green. The reliably conservative district has become the focus of intense national attention, with both parties pouring millions into the race.
Republican Matt Van Epps, a former Army helicopter pilot and state official, has received more than $1 million in backing from MAGA Inc., marking the super PAC’s first investment since last year’s presidential campaign. President Donald Trump has personally rallied support, joining events by phone and hosting tele‑rallies in the final stretch.
Democrats, buoyed by recent victories in New Jersey, Virginia and other states, are betting on state Rep. Aftyn Behn. The House Majority PAC has matched GOP spending with $1 million in support, while national figures including Kamala Harris, Al Gore and Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez have campaigned for her.
The district was redrawn in 2022 to weaken Nashville’s influence, and Republicans won it by more than 20 points last year. Still, Democrats argue that narrowing the margin would signal momentum heading into the midterms. With turnout dampened by the holiday week, both sides are bracing for a close finish in a race that has become a test of national political strength.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:50 AM EST
Democrat Aftyn Behn responds to Trump accusation she ‘hates Christianity’
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In the final hours before Tennessee’s high-stakes special congressional election, Democrat Aftyn Behn is pushing back against President Donald Trump, calling his rhetoric a sign of panic.
“President Trump is saying all these things because he doesn’t have a plan to address the rising cost of health care and to ensure that working Tennesseans are able to afford health care, groceries and utilities,” Behn told Newsweek in an exclusive interview on Monday.
The state representative from Nashville has emerged as a surprise contender in the 7th Congressional District, where Republicans have long held control. Her campaign has gained traction in recent days, drawing national attention and a direct attack from Trump, who used his Truth Social platform Sunday to promote Republican Matt Van Epps and disparage Behn.
In his post, Trump accused Behn of being a radical who “hates Christianity, will take away your guns, wants Open Borders, Transgender for everybody, men in women’s sports, and openly disdains Country music.” He added, “She said all of these things precisely, and without question—IT’S ON TAPE!”
Continue reading: Democrat Aftyn Behn Responds to Trump Accusation She ‘Hates Christianity’
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:37 AM EST
Al Gore, Ocasio-Cortez rally support for Behn in Tennessee special election
Former Vice President Al Gore said Monday night that President Trump is “beginning to panic” over Tennessee’s 7th congressional district special election, citing recent Democratic victories across the country as evidence of shifting political momentum.
Speaking at a virtual rally for Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn, Gore pointed to wins in Virginia, New Jersey, New York and Georgia, as well as California’s approval of a new congressional map. He told supporters the results show voters are “sick and tired of Trump’s madness and cruelty.”
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez also joined the call, saying the race has moved from a long‑shot contest in a district rated R+22 to one “within striking distance.” She added, “Miracles can happen,” urging Democrats to push turnout in Tuesday’s election against Republican Matt Van Epps.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:24 AM EST
Conservative media spotlight Tennessee’s 7th District race, characterize Behn as ‘AOC of Tennessee’
Fox News and other right‑leaning outlets have zeroed in on Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, amplifying Republican Matt Van Epps while casting Democrat Aftyn Behn in sharply critical terms.
Van Epps has appeared in multiple on‑air interviews, with the networks framing Behn as the “AOC of Tennessee” and a “radical” candidate. The coverage has intensified in the final stretch of the special election, reflecting the national stakes of a race in a district long considered a Republican stronghold.
Fox News anchor Julie Banderas escalated the attacks during a recent broadcast, saying Behn’s “mother did not do a very good job in raising her” and claiming the candidate has “mommy issues.” The remarks highlight the personal tone of criticism Behn has faced as she challenges Van Epps in a closely watched contest.
Dec 02, 2025 at 11:11 AM EST
Tennessee special election could be Kamala Harris’ revenge on Donald Trump
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A Democratic victory in the special election for Tennessee’s Seventh Congressional District on Tuesday could be a "boost" to former Vice President Kamala Harris, more than a year after her loss to President Donald Trump.
Voters will head to the polls on Tuesday to elect either Democratic state legislator Aftyn Behn or GOP veteran Matt Van Epps to the House of Representatives in a special election to replace former Representative Mark Green, who earlier this year left Congress for a private sector job. The district isn’t typically viewed as competitive—Trump carried it by about 22 points last November. But Democrats are hopeful that Behn could flip the seat, as the party has performed well in special elections this year, and recent polls show a close race.
The race has drawn national attention, including from both Trump and Harris, who returned to the campaign trail for the first time since last year to urge Democrats to vote in the special election. A Behn victory would deal a major blow to Trump and a victory to Harris, who has been speculated to be a potential 2028 presidential candidate.
Continue reading: Tennessee Special Election Could Be Kamala Harris’ Revenge on Donald Trump
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:58 AM EST
Tennessee special election seen as key test before 2026 midterms
Strategists in both parties are casting Tuesday’s special election in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district as an early test of strength ahead of the 2026 midterms. The race comes on the heels of Democratic victories in several states last month, raising tensions in a district long considered safely Republican.
Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee acknowledged GOP nerves, noting that the off‑year, holiday‑season election could favor Democrats. Analysts say Republicans have poured millions into defending the seat once held by Mark Green, underscoring the stakes.
“It’s interesting that Van Epps isn’t in a strong enough position just to ignore her,” Vanderbilt political scientist John G. Geer told the Washington Post, referring to Democrat Aftyn Behn’s challenge to Republican Matt Van Epps. “That tells me they’re worried.”
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:44 AM EST
Tennessee’s 7th district special election: Van Epps vs. Behn in tight race
Republican Matt Van Epps and Democrat Aftyn Behn are locked in a competitive contest for Tennessee’s 7th congressional district, a seat that has historically favored Republicans. The district stretches across parts of central and western Tennessee and was previously represented by GOP Rep. Mark Green, who resigned earlier this year.
While the area has long been considered a conservative stronghold, a recent poll shows Van Epps leading Behn by just two points, highlighting the possibility of a closer‑than‑expected outcome. The race has drawn national attention as both parties test their messages ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:31 AM EST
Trump urges Tennessee voters to back Van Epps in special election
Trump on Tuesday morning called on supporters in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District to turn out for Republican candidate Matt Van Epps in the day’s special election.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Van Epps as a “MAGA Warrior” and gave him his “Complete and Total Endorsement.” He contrasted Van Epps with Democratic opponent Aftyn Behn, claiming Van Epps “cherishes Christianity and Country Music.”
Trump reminded voters that polls close at 7 p.m. local time and encouraged them to remain in line if necessary. The race will determine who succeeds former Rep. Mark Green, who resigned in July.
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:18 AM EST
WATCH: Aftyn Behn on Trump attacks and Tennessee’s special election
Dec 02, 2025 at 10:05 AM EST
Tennessee Special Election: What the polls show
A new Emerson College Polling/The Hill survey finds Republican Matt Van Epps narrowly ahead of Democrat Aftyn Behn in Tennessee’s 7th congressional district special election. Van Epps is supported by 48 percent of voters, compared to 46 percent for Behn, with 2 percent backing third‑party candidates and 5 percent undecided. Factoring in leaners, Van Epps’ support rises to 49 percent and Behn’s to 47 percent.
The poll highlights sharp divides by age and gender. Voters under 40 favor Behn by a wide margin, while Van Epps leads among those over 70. Men back Van Epps by nine points, while women support Behn by six. Both candidates hold identical favorability ratings at 47 percent.
President Trump’s approval rating in the district stands at 47 percent, with 49 percent disapproving—a notable drop from his 22‑point victory there last year, mainly driven by independents.
The economy is the top issue for 38 percent of voters, followed by housing affordability, healthcare, and threats to democracy. Among those prioritizing the economy, Van Epps leads Behn 48 to 44 percent.
The survey of 600 likely voters was conducted November 22‑24 and carries a credibility interval of plus or minus 3.9 points.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:59 AM EST
How the special election could impact the 2026 midterms
A congressional special election in Tennessee’s 7th District has drawn national attention as Democrats and Republicans battle to shape their messages before the 2026 midterms. The district, long a conservative stronghold, gave former Rep. Mark Green and President Trump about 60 percent of the vote last year.
Democrats, however, have consistently outperformed their 2024 margins in special elections this year, raising hopes for an upset as state Rep. Aftyn Behn faces Republican Matt Van Epps, a former state official backed by Trump.
Outside spending has surged in the final weeks, with more than $6.5 million poured into the race, including $1.6 million from the pro‑Trump MAGA Inc. super PAC. Polling remains tight, with Emerson College showing Van Epps slightly ahead but within the margin of error.
Both campaigns have centered their closing arguments on affordability. Van Epps has pledged to lower prices and create jobs, while Behn has promised to make health care more affordable and protect small businesses. National surrogates from both parties have rallied in Tennessee, underscoring the race’s significance for a narrowly divided Congress.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:52 AM EST
When did Mark Green announce his retirement?
Mark Green, a physician and retired U.S. Army surgeon, represented Tennessee’s 7th congressional district from 2019 until his resignation in 2025. A Republican, Green chaired the House Committee on Homeland Security from 2023 to 2025 before leaving Congress to enter the private sector.
A West Point graduate, Green served as an infantry officer before earning his medical degree at Wright State University. He became a flight surgeon with the Army’s elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, participating in missions in Afghanistan and Iraq, including Operation Red Dawn, which captured Saddam Hussein. He later authored a book about the experience.
After retiring from the military in 2006, Green founded Align MD, a hospital staffing company, and launched a medical foundation providing care to underserved communities. He entered politics in 2012, winning a Tennessee Senate seat, where he championed legislation to repeal the state’s Hall Income Tax and expand protections for veterans and small businesses.
Green was elected to Congress in 2018, succeeding Marsha Blackburn, and won reelection three times. His tenure included a brief bid for House Speaker in 2023 and leadership on homeland security issues. He announced his resignation in June 2025 after the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” ending his congressional career on July 20.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:46 AM EST
What to know about Matt Van Epps
Matt Van Epps, 42, has quickly risen from relative obscurity to become a central figure in Tennessee politics. Backed by former President Donald Trump, billionaire‑funded PACs, and both current and former state governors, he has emerged as the Republican nominee in the closely watched special election for the 7th congressional district.
A native of suburban Cleveland, Van Epps moved to Tennessee after a decade in the U.S. Army. A decorated combat helicopter pilot, he served nine tours in Afghanistan and Iraq and graduated from West Point. He now holds the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Tennessee Army National Guard.
Beyond his military career, Van Epps worked in state government, including roles in Veterans Services and Transportation, and later led the Department of General Services. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, he served as a strategic planner in Tennessee’s Unified Command Group, helping shape the state’s response. His role earned him the nickname “Tennessee’s Fauci” from opponents in the Republican primary.
Van Epps’ rapid ascent, bolstered by national GOP support, has made him a key player in a race that could influence the balance of power in Congress.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:41 AM EST
Who is Aftyn Behn?
Aftyn Behn, a Tennessee state representative since 2023, is the Democratic nominee in Tuesday’s special election for the state’s 7th congressional district. Behn, 36, first entered the legislature after winning a special election to succeed the late Rep. Bill Beck, defeating interim appointee Anthony Davis in the primary and securing more than 75 percent of the vote in the general election.
Before holding office, Behn worked in social services and as a healthcare organizer with the Tennessee Justice Center. In the legislature, she has advanced proposals to repeal the state’s grocery sales tax, codify the Equal Rights Amendment in Tennessee’s constitution, and partnered with Republican colleagues on workplace harassment reforms. She also drew attention in 2025 for confronting federal immigration agents during patrols in Nashville.
Behn currently serves on the Agriculture & Natural Resources, Transportation, Naming & Designating, and Disaster Relief committees. She won the Democratic primary in October against fellow lawmakers Vincent Dixie and Bo Mitchell, as well as businessman Darden Copeland. She now faces Republican Matt Van Epps in a race triggered by the resignation of GOP Rep. Mark Green.
Dec 02, 2025 at 09:36 AM EST
Why is Tennessee having a special election?
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Voters in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District head to the polls Tuesday in a closely watched special election to replace former Rep. Mark Green. The race, normally a safe Republican seat, has tightened as both candidates emphasize affordability amid rising costs.
Republican Matt Van Epps, a Trump‑backed Army veteran, faces Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn, who has campaigned on lowering healthcare and grocery expenses. National figures have weighed in: President Donald Trump called into Van Epps’ rally Monday, while former Vice President Al Gore and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez joined virtual events for Behn.
The contest comes as Democrats have outperformed expectations in recent special elections, raising hopes of another upset. More than $5 million has been spent on advertising, with both parties pouring resources into the district.
Republicans have attacked Behn over past comments on policing and Nashville, while she counters that her record reflects a commitment to affordability and local decision‑making. With the GOP’s House majority already fragile, the outcome could carry national implications.
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