Trump, Speaker Johnson, AOC launch intense campaign on the day before crucial congressional showdown

On the eve of Tuesday's special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, former President Donald Trump urged Republican voters to get out and vote and demonstrate the partys strength. The district, a GOP stronghold, is competing to fill the seat vacated by former Representative Mark Green, who resigned in June to pursue a private-sector opportunity.

Trumps appearance marked the first of two campaign events for the elections final day, while House Speaker Mike Johnson spent the day attending multiple stops with Republican nominee Matt Van Epps. Van Epps, a military veteran and former Tennessee Department of General Services commissioner, is facing Democratic nominee Aftyn Behn for the open seat.

"We aim to win this seat, but we cannot assume victory," Johnson told reporters ahead of a rally in Franklin, Tennessee, just south of Nashville. Trump carried this district by 22 points in last years presidential election, highlighting the GOPs traditional advantage here.

Despite the district's red lean, Democrats are investing heavily, motivated by recent nationwide wins and viewing this race as a gauge for the 2026 midterms. Both parties are marshaling resources to secure the crucial seat, which contributes to the GOP's narrow 219-213 House majority.

"Nothing is automatic in special elections, even in a deep red district," Johnson emphasized. "We are working to turn out voters and ensure our candidate crosses the finish line."

Van Epps expressed confidence, citing over 50 local endorsements and strong campaign events leading up to Election Day. "Were prepared for a decisive victory tomorrow," he said.

Trump called Johnson during the rally, urging a "sweeping victory" and stressing that the nation was watching. High-profile Republicans including Governor Bill Lee and Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty spoke at the event, along with RNC Chair Joe Gruters, who described Tennessee as the "red wall" critical to maintaining GOP control.

On the Democratic side, state representative Aftyn Behn received last-minute support from top progressive figures. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez hosted a virtual rally with Behn, joined by Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Black Voters Matter co-founder LaTosha Brown, and former Vice President Al Gore. Behn focused her campaign message on affordability, highlighting issues like grocery prices, healthcare, and tariffs as central concerns for voters.

While Democrats see a path to victory, the race remains challenging. Van Epps and Johnson have portrayed Behn as an extreme leftist out of touch with the district, criticizing her past remarks on Nashville and other issues. Behn has acknowledged her prior comments but emphasized that her campaign is centered on economic struggles facing families across middle Tennessee.

Republicans have also highlighted a 2019 op-ed and previous anti-police remarks by Behn, framing her as disconnected from the states values. Behn's team countered, claiming these attacks signal the unpopularity of the GOP agenda and pointing to a surge in first-time and occasional voters during early voting.

The election outcome carries high stakes. A Democratic win could jeopardize the GOPs House majority, making each vote critical. Johnson noted, "Since becoming speaker, Ive overseen some of the smallest majorities in history. Every seat is vital."

Author: Olivia Parker