Republicans aim to Recover from Losses with Upcoming Special Election

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The general election for Tennessee’s 7^th U.S. House Congressional District will take place on Tuesday. Republicans are aiming to recover from their recent losses nationwide and hope to win voters in the upcoming election.

This past summer, Republican Rep. Mark Green resigned from his post. The election was arranged right after the resignation and has experienced an influx in spending over the past few weeks.

MAGA Inc., the Super PAC created in 2022 to support President Trump during his 2024 election campaign, has backed Republican candidate Matt Van Epps with more than $1 million. The race’s significance is apparent, as this is the first time the super PAC has financially supported a campaign since the 2024 Presidential election.

Other Republican leaders have been seen attempting to gather support, such as House Speaker Mike Johnson and the party’s chair, Joe Gruters. President Donald Trump also made an appearance via phone call and through a subsequent tele-rally held for Van Epps.

Earlier in November, Democrats obtained major off-year election victories in New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and more. Establishing a strong Democratic presence in Tennessee can aid in strengthening the party’s position ahead of the midterm elections taking place this upcoming November.

Democratic candidate, Rep. Aftyn Behn, a self-proclaimed "pissed off social worker", is receiving support from various sources as well. The House Majority PAC has backed Behn by donating $1 million to her campaign.  Former Vice President Kamala Harris has participated in canvassing efforts. Democratic Party chair Ken Martin has provided additional aid, visiting the state to help campaign.

Republicans have sough to thwart Behn by using her own rhetoric against in her television advertising. Using terms to describe her such as a "radical" or claims that she's "bullied" ICE agents and state enforcement officers, which she has claimed herself previously

The 7^th District is one of the three seats redrawn in 2022 to minimize Democratic influence provided by Nashville. An estimate of around 1 in 5 registered district voters is from Nashville. Nashville is the largest city in Tennessee with a strong Democratic Presence.

Last year, Rep. Green gained 21 percentage points, with Trump earning a similar amount within the 7^th District.