Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
FIRST ON FOX House Homeland Security Committee Chair Rep. Mark Green, R-Tenn., has officially endorsed Matt Van Epps as his successor for the U.S. House of Representatives amidst his retirement announcement.
Van Epps, a decorated Army veteran and the previous commissioner of Tennessee’s Department of General Services, is eager to represent Tennessee’s 7th congressional district. He initiated his campaign just two days after Green declared his intent to retire and transition into the private sector.
In a statement provided to Fox News Digital, Green emphasized his strong support, stating, “Matt Van Epps has my complete and total endorsement.” He noted that both he and Van Epps served in the same Army special operations unit, describing their bond as “a brotherhood that cannot be replicated anywhere else.”
Green further asserted, “The momentum behind Matt’s campaign is undeniable. He is a true warrior who has fought for our country abroad and is ready to fight for our values here at home.” This endorsement underscores both the trust Green places in Van Epps and the high expectations for his candidacy.
Responding to the endorsement, Van Epps voiced his honor in receiving Green’s backing and expressed his commitment to prioritizing the needs of the 7th District. He remarked, “Congressman Green has left some very large shoes to fill, but I’m ready to step in and continue his work on behalf of Tennesseans.”
Born and raised in Tennessee, Van Epps graduated from West Point in 2005. He has an impressive military background, serving nine combat tours as an Apache pilot for the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade and later as a Chinook pilot for the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, famously known as the Night Stalkers. His notable service record adds credibility to his campaign.
Before his appointment as DGS commissioner in 2024, Van Epps held positions with various Tennessee state agencies, including the Department of Veteran Services and the Department of Transportation. His extensive experience within state government further strengthens his qualifications for Congress.
Mark Green’s retirement announcement came last month, as he informed House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., that he plans to resign following the House vote on Trump’s significant funding bill. Republicans achieved their goal with a self-imposed deadline before the July 4 holiday.
Green, a representative for Tennessee’s 7th congressional district since 2019, will officially depart from Congress on July 20, according to reports from Fox News. His departure marks a significant moment headlined by his influential role in defense and national security.
As Green exits, a growing list of Republican candidates has entered the race for his seat, including Montgomery County Commissioner Jason Knight, U.S. Army veteran Jonathan Thorp, and Mason Foley of Main Street Health. State Representatives Jay Reedy, Lee Reeves, and Jody Barrett have also announced their candidacies. This influx of competition illustrates the high stakes involved in the upcoming election.
On the Democratic side, State Representatives Aftyn Behn and Bo Mitchell have declared their ambitions to secure the party’s nomination, signaling a competitive race ahead.
With the political landscape rapidly evolving, the endorsement by Mark Green may prove pivotal in shaping the future direction of Tennessee’s 7th congressional district. The competition between candidates represents not only their individual aspirations but also the values and priorities they wish to bring to Washington moving forward.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As Matt Van Epps embarks on his campaign, the support from Mark Green serves as a strong foundation. Connecting with Tennessee voters will be crucial for Van Epps, leveraging his military service and government experience to establish his credibility. With significant challenges ahead, including addressing local concerns, economic growth, and national security, succeeding Green will require dedication and resilience.
As the election cycle intensifies, voters in Tennessee’s 7th district will closely observe the platforms presented by all candidates. The race promises to highlight critical issues, revealing the contrasting visions for the future of their community and the nation. The outcome will ultimately depend on which candidate can most effectively resonate with their constituents and embody the values held dear by Tennessee residents.
In the coming months, engaging with the electorate, participating in debates, and outlining detailed policy positions will be crucial for all candidates. As Matt Van Epps seeks to honor Green’s legacy while forging his own path, he will undoubtedly face a political landscape filled with both opportunities and challenges.
