September 30, 2025
Back to all stories

Tennessee governor endorses Matt Van Epps

Less than a week before the Oct. 7 Republican primary for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, Gov. Bill Lee publicly endorsed Matt Van Epps to replace retiring Rep. Mark Green. The endorsement arrives in a packed special‑election field of 19 candidates (11 Republicans) and emphasizes Van Epps’ military service, West Point background and recent state cabinet role as DGS commissioner.

Politics Elections

🔍 Key Facts

  • Gov. Bill Lee announced his endorsement of Matt Van Epps and said he will vote for him on October 7.
  • The special election field includes 19 candidates overall, with 11 Republicans competing for the GOP nomination.
  • Van Epps is a 2005 West Point graduate, served nine combat tours as an Army aviator, and was appointed DGS commissioner in Tennessee in 2024.