Image Credit: Matt Van Epps for Congress
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
In Tuesday’s heated contest that drew national attention Republican Matt Van Epps won the District 7 Special Election to replace Congressman Mark Green, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by approximately 9%.
Results from the Secretary of State recorded 179,899 total votes across the district. Individual candidate numbers are:
Matt Van Epps (R) – 96,988 votes; 53.9%
Aftyn Behn (D) – 81,044 votes; 45%
Jon Thorp (I) – 932 votes; 0.52%
Teresa “Terri” Christie (I) – 610 votes; 0.34%
Bobby Dodge (I) – 196 votes; 0.11%
Robert James Sutherby (I) – 129 votes; 0.07%
The AP called the race for Van Epps at 8:40 p.m., less than two hours after polls closed, and the county breakdowns showed Van Epps winning every county except Davidson, which was expected as Nashville is usually considered a Democrat stronghold.
Montgomery County was the only other area in the district where the race remained relatively tight. The spread between the Republican and Democrat was only around 8% at the end of the night. Behn was initially leading in Montgomery County after early voting, but Election Day turnout boosted Van Epps to the narrow victory.
Heavier than normal turnout was reflected across the district in contrast to early voting numbers which were recorded at 84,356 total votes district wide. Various sources reported long lines in Robertson and Williamson Counties and a strong presence by rural counties.
A Montgomery County poll worker told The Tennessee Conservative that the higher-than-anticipated voter turnout at their precinct was a pleasant surprise considering the day’s unpleasant weather and general lack of voter enthusiasm in off-year special elections.
At the Van Epps campaign’s watch party, Gov. Bill Lee, introduced by TN GOP Scott Golden, offered his congratulations, calling Van Epps a “very fine man”. Numerous other Tennessee elected officials celebrated the Republican win online, expressing their eagerness to add Van Epps to the Congressional ranks.
Congressman Tim Burchett wrote, “A win for the Volunteer State! Common sense prevails. Congratulations to my friend, and newest colleague @MattForTN.”
Senator Marsha Blackburn also hailed the victory, posting, “Tonight, Tennessee rejected Democrats’ radical beliefs and showed the nation why we’re the best state to live, work, and rear a family. I can’t wait to work with Congressman Van Epps to make Tennessee America’s conservative leader!”
President Trump, who endorsed Van Epps just days before the primary election, posted to social media, “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!!!”
Van Epps praised the President in return during his victory speech saying, “I have your backs, and together we will fight for the people we serve. Tonight, we showed running from Trump is how you lose, running with Trump is how you win. President Trump was all in with us, and it made the difference. In Congress, I’ll be all in with him.”
He concluded, “No matter what the D.C. insiders or media liberals say, this is President Trump’s party. I’m proud to be a part of it and I can’t wait to get to work. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me. Thank you for believing in this movement and for believing in America. God bless you, God bless Tennessee, and may God bless the United States of America.”
The Congressman-elect also reiterated his intent to focus on cost of living, healthcare and prescription costs, and veteran care once taking office. Once Van Epps is sworn in, the House Republican Caucus will have 220 seats, maintaining their slight majority over the Democrats’ 213.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
