Nashville, Tenn.–Matt Van Epps, a former commissioner in Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s administration who was endorsed by President Donald Trump, and Democratic state Rep. Aftyn Behn won their crowded primary races Tuesday. They will face off in December in a special election to replace a GOP congressman Mark Green, who resigned from his seat in the 7th Congressional District last summer.
Eleven Republicans were on the ballot and Van Epps gained victory by a large margin with the presidential endorsement that came after in-person early voting ended. According to unofficial figures from the Secretary of State’s office, Van Epps total was 19,001, with the second place finisher being Jody Barrett with 9,335.
In a victory speech, the Republican nominee said the endorsement “made the difference, and I will never forget it.” He pledged to work with Trump on issues ranging from illegal immigration enforcement to providing care for veterans.
Four Democrats were on the ballot, with Aftyn Behn winning with 8,648 votes.
Counties in the 7th District are Benton, Stewart, Houston, Montgomery, Decatur. Perry, Wayne, Hickman, Robertson, Cheatham, Dickson and part of Williamson and Davidson.
Matt Van Epps (R)✔19,001Jody Barrett (R)9,335Gino Bulso (R)4,004Lee Reeves (R)1,929Mason Foley (R)1,022Stewart Parks (R)595Jason D. Knight (R)381Stuart Cooper (R)239Tres Wittum (R)133Joe Leurs (R)122Adolph Agbeko Dagan (R)93
Aftyn Behn (D)✔8,648Darden Hunter Copeland (D)7,716Bo Mitchell (D)7,492Vincent Dixie (D)7,146