Governor Bill Lee Endorses Matt Van Epps for Congress

In a significant move just days before the primary election, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced his support for Matt Van Epps, who is aiming to fill the vacancy left by former Representative Mark Green in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Green’s decision to retire triggered a competitive special election, with a notable lineup of 11 Republican candidates vying for the party’s nomination. Van Epps received Green’s backing right before his final day of representing Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District in July.

During his announcement on Tuesday, Lee expressed his full support for Van Epps, stating, “I’m going to vote for Matt. I encourage all conservatives to do the same on October 7th.” He also shared his eagerness to have Van Epps as his representative in Congress.

In response, Van Epps conveyed his gratitude for the governor’s endorsement, emphasizing his commitment to uphold the agenda of President Donald Trump as a “strong conservative voice” in the House.

Lee highlighted Van Epps’s credentials, noting his experience as a West Point graduate, an accomplished special operations pilot, and a current National Guard member. He stated, “Matt has the character and courage to go to Washington and fight for Tennesseans.”

Previously, Van Epps served as the Commissioner for the Department of General Services starting in 2024 and has held roles in various Tennessee agencies, including Veterans Services and Transportation. He has been credited with efforts to improve accountability and government efficiency during his tenure.

Graduating from West Point in 2005, Van Epps has an impressive military background, having completed nine combat tours as an Apache and Chinook pilot.

Mark Green, who resigned from Congress last month, has been a significant figure in the GOP, chairing the House Homeland Security Committee. His departure slightly decreased the Republican majority in the House, which now stands at 219, compared to 212 Democrats.

Tennessee’s 7th District, which strongly supported Trump in the last election, will hold its primary on October 7th, followed by a special election scheduled for December 2nd.