NASHVILLE, Tenn. — President Donald Trump dialed into a rally Monday night to boost Republican House candidate Matt Van Epps ahead of Tuesday’s special election in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, telling supporters that “the whole world is watching” and urging a “sweeping victory.” House Speaker Mike Johnson held his phone to the microphone as Trump praised the GOP’s strength and said the race should demonstrate the party’s momentum.
Van Epps, a former Tennessee Department of General Services commissioner, faces Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn in the contest to replace former Rep. Mark Green, who resigned earlier this year. While the district is solidly Republican, Democrats hope to outperform expectations following strong showings in last month’s off-year elections.
Trump called Van Epps “one of the best” and sharply attacked Behn, referencing comments she made in 2020 criticizing aspects of Nashville’s tourism culture. He claimed she opposed country music, Christianity, and supported “open borders,” while asking supporters how they could “elect a person like that.”
Behn responded last month in a campaign video, saying her earlier remarks were expressions of frustration and emphasizing her support for working families and pride in Nashville’s cultural identity.
The special election will determine who fills the seat for the remainder of the term, with national political observers watching for any signs of shifting voter sentiment ahead of 2026.
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Sources:
• The Hill – MBFC Rating
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