Overview
- Republican Matt Van Epps defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn by about nine points in Tennessee’s 7th District, which Trump carried by 22 points in 2024.
- The vote underscored a sharp urban–suburban split, with Behn winning Nashville by 56 points but losing affluent Williamson County by 23.
- Centrist Democrats say Behn’s progressive profile and past policing comments undercut her in the suburbs and argue for recruiting more moderate nominees in red seats.
- Republicans leaned on law-and-order attacks during the race, and leaders such as Senate Majority Leader John Thune say the party must sharpen its message before the 2026 midterms.
- Moderate Democratic groups signal interest in engaging in primaries to shape slates, while GOP lawmakers talk up better selling affordability policies and rallying turnout next year.