Republican Matt Van Epps sworn into House, giving GOP 220-213 majority. Tennessee special election victory provides breathing room for Republican control.

Republican Matt Van Epps defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn in a special election in a conservative House of Representatives district in Tennessee Tuesday night—but Democrats improved on former Vice President Kamala Harris’ showing in the district.

Tennessee Rep.-elect Matt Van Epps celebrates his special election victory, thanking President Donald Trump for his endorsement and says his decisive win helps set the tone for the 2026 midterms.

Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) noted the “quick” swearing in for Rep. Matt Van Epps (R-TN) on Thursday after her own swearing in was paused. “Less than 48 hours after winning… must be nice,” Grijalva wrote on X later.

After months of campaigning, canvassing and endorsements, Republican Matt Van Epps claims the win for the 7th Congressional District seat over challenger Democrat Aftyn Behn.

Tenn., lays out why he’s confident GOP congressional candidate Matt Van Epps will win Tennessee’s special election on ‘The Story.’