In a closely watched Republican special primary held on October 7, 2025, Matt Van Epps, backed by President Donald Trump, secured the GOP nomination to fill the congressional seat vacated by Rep. Mark Green.

Van Epps, a former commissioner in Gov. Bill Lee’s administration and a military veteran, emerged victorious from an 11-candidate field, winning a decisive share of the vote — in part due to his late endorsement by Trump, which spurred rival candidates to drop out and rally behind him. Van Epps also benefited from endorsements from Tennessee Republican leaders, including former Rep. Mark Green and Gov. Bill Lee.

On the Democratic side, State Rep. Aftyn Behn won her party’s primary and will face Van Epps in the special election scheduled for December 2, 2025. Given the district’s strong Republican lean—former Rep. Mark Green carried the district with 59% of the vote in 2024—Van Epps enters the general election as a strong favorite. The special general election will take place on December 2.

2025 Tennessee 7th Congressional District Republican Special Primary Election Results

2025 Tennessee 7th Congressional District Democratic Special Primary Election Results