NASHVILLE, Tenn. (FlashPoint) — The race for the 7th U.S. House Congressional District in Tennessee is heating up as both Republicans and Democrats mobilize for what many view as a critical electoral contest in light of recent national trends. President Donald Trump and his supporters are making substantial efforts to support Republican candidate Matt Van Epps in a bid to regain momentum following recent defeats in other states.

The special election was prompted by the resignation of Republican Rep. Mark Green this summer and has prompted an unexpected surge in campaign spending, flooding local media with advertising and campaign materials.

Van Epps has garnered significant financial backing, including over $1 million from the MAGA Inc. super PAC, marking a notable return for Trump-related funding efforts ahead of the midterms. High-profile Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, rallied through tele-events aimed at boosting Van Epps’ visibility among voters.

On the Democratic side, state Rep. Aftyn Behn has also received robust backing, with $1 million from the House Majority PAC and appearances from prominent figures such as former Vice Presidents Kamala Harris and Al Gore. This intense competition illustrates both parties' awareness of the implications that this race holds for upcoming elections.

Democrats are optimistic that a strong performance in this traditionally Republican district could signal momentum, while Republicans express confidence that Van Epps can maintain the seat, emphasizing that challenges facing the Democrats remain considerable.

Past remarks from Behn regarding Nashville have become focal points for Republicans, while she has launched her own robust platform centered around the cost of living, resonating with many voters concerned about economic issues. As the election day approaches, maneuvering from both parties suggests this election could be a bellwether for the political landscape in 2024.