Trump-backed Republican Matt Van Epps wins US House special election in Tennessee

Republican Matt Van Epps, backed by President Donald Trump, won a special election in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, maintaining the GOP's hold on the seat. Van Epps, a military veteran and former state general services commissioner, defeated Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn, who campaigned on economic issues and criticized Trump's policies. The election was closely watched, with Trump-supporting super PAC MAGA Inc. spending over $1 million, marking its first campaign expenditure since the 2020 presidential race. The outcome was significant for both parties, as Democrats sought to challenge Republican strongholds while Republicans aimed to solidify their control.