In a decisive triumph for conservatives, Republican Matt Van Epps clinched the special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District on Tuesday night, reinforcing the GOP’s grip on a key House seat, Breitbart reported. 

This contest, pitting Van Epps against Democrat Aftyn Behn, filled the vacancy left by former Rep. Mark Green, R-Tenn., who stepped down for a private sector role.

The road to this election began when Green’s resignation created an unexpected opening, prompting a swift call for a special vote to maintain representation for the district.

Van Epps Champions Republican House Majority

Van Epps, a staunch Republican, didn’t shy away from highlighting the stakes during his campaign, framing the race as a linchpin for GOP control in Congress.

“This is a critical election for the balance of power in the House for Republicans to hold the majority,” Van Epps declared on Breitbart News Daily. Well, he wasn’t wrong—every seat counts when the margin is razor-thin, and Tennessee’s 7th just became a brick in the conservative wall.

Adding fuel to his campaign, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social, rallying supporters with a clear directive: “[I call for] all America First Patriots in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District to please GET OUT AND VOTE” for Van Epps. Talk about a heavyweight endorsement—Trump’s nod likely spurred many to the polls.

Behn’s Campaign Raises Eyebrows with Rhetoric

On the other side, Democrat Aftyn Behn brought a progressive perspective that sparked plenty of discussion, if not outright skepticism, among conservative voters.

In a 2020 podcast appearance on “Grits,” Behn mused about reproductive policies, saying, “I think as an organizer and as an activist, we really have an opportunity here in this country to talk about what type of progressive policies we want to see as young women.” Fair enough, but her next point about “collective bargaining” for those who can give birth—regardless of gender—might leave traditionalists scratching their heads over what exactly that entails.

Behn continued, noting how such leverage could shape family policies, referencing a book titled “Birth Strike.” While innovative to some, this kind of language often feels detached from the everyday concerns of Tennessee families who prioritize jobs and security over abstract social theories.

Transgender Advocacy Shapes Behn’s Narrative

Behn’s platform also touched on deeply personal issues, particularly after the tragic March 2023 shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, where she and her family extended sympathies to the transgender community.

During a July 2023 candidate forum, Behn revealed her partner “has a trans son,” shedding light on her personal connection to transgender advocacy. Her empathy is understandable, but for many conservatives, the focus on identity politics can overshadow broader community healing after such a devastating event.

She added that post-shooting revelations about the shooter’s identity led her to join discussions with transgender activists statewide who feared for their safety. While fear is a valid human response, some might argue this emphasis risks diverting attention from addressing root causes like mental health or school security.

Election Outcome Reinforces Conservative Values

When the votes were tallied on Tuesday night, the outcome was clear, with election analyst Dave Wasserman of the Cook Political Report calling the race in Van Epps’ favor.

For conservatives, this victory isn’t just a win for Van Epps but a signal that Tennessee’s 7th District remains a stronghold for traditional values over progressive experimentation. It’s a polite reminder to the left that not every district is ready to embrace a sweeping social agenda.

As the dust settles, Van Epps prepares to take his place in Congress, carrying the hopes of constituents who value a steady hand over ideological overreach. Here’s to hoping he delivers on the trust placed in him—and keeps that House majority intact.