Folks in Tennessee’s heartland are gearing up for a showdown that could redefine loyalty in the Republican ranks. Today, voters in the 7th Congressional District head to the polls for a special primary election, where President Donald Trump’s voice thunders louder than ever.
The vacancy hit hard when Rep. Mark Green, a solid conservative warrior, stepped down in June to tackle a role in the real world outside Washington.
Green’s departure left a gap in a district that’s pure red territory, stretching across central and western Tennessee, brushing up against Kentucky and Alabama. Trump dominated here last year, racking up a 20-point victory. Now, 11 Republicans are scrapping for the nod, but one man’s endorsement has turned the tide.
Enter Matt Van Epps, the former commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services. Trump’s late endorsement—dropping after early voting wrapped—has flipped the script on this packed field.
Lee Reeves, one of the early frontrunners, saw the writing on the wall and suspended his bid to throw full weight behind Van Epps. That’s the kind of unity Trump’s movement demands—no room for fence-sitters when the stakes are this high.
“Matt knows the WISDOM and COURAGE required to Defend our Country, Support our Incredible Military/Veterans, and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH,” Trump declared in a blistering statement. Van Epps called Trump’s nod “an incredible honor.”
Green himself, along with Republican Governor Bill Lee, lined up to back Van Epps, proving this isn’t some solo act. He was also endorsed by Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH).
On the cusp of voting day, Trump didn’t just tweet his support—he jumped on a tele-rally with Van Epps, powered by the heavyweight Club for Growth.
This district isn’t some swing-state sideshow; it’s Trump country through and through. Working families here know the score—they backed him big. Van Epps channels that spirit, promising to carry the torch on border security, veteran care, and economic muscle that lifts everyday folks.
Challengers like state Reps. Jody Barrett and Gino Bulso are in the mix, with Barrett waving his flag as the “most conservative state rep. in Tennessee history.” He’s got the House Freedom Caucus’s political machine dumping serious dollars into his corner, trying to paint himself as the purist.
Barrett’s crew talks a big game, but when Trump calls, true believers answer. The Freedom Caucus spent heavy, no doubt, but money can’t buy the kind of momentum that comes from the president’s direct blessing.
Over on the Democrat side, four hopefuls are duking it out: state Reps. Vincent Dixie, Aftyn Behn, and Bo Mitchell, plus businessman Darden Copeland.
Come December 2, when the general election rolls around, the GOP winner will face the winner of the Democratic primary contest.
As Tennessee voters mark their ballots today, they’re not just picking a congressman—they’re sending a message to the nation.
Stay tuned to the Fairview Gazette.
