Overview
- The Dec. 2 special election follows Rep. Mark Green’s July resignation to take a private-sector job.
- Democrat Aftyn Behn faces Republican Matt Van Epps, with early voting set for Nov. 12–26, according to the Tennessee secretary of state.
- Recent surveys show Van Epps ahead by about eight points overall, while a Behn internal finds the most motivated voters split evenly.
- DNC Chair Ken Martin is deploying staff and plans to campaign with Behn, signaling elevated national engagement.
- Republicans are boosting efforts to hold a district Trump won by roughly 20 points and Cook rates about R+10, with Balloon Juice reporting a pro-Van Epps ‘dark money’ ad; Sabato’s Crystal Ball keeps the race Likely Republican.