Former President Donald Trump is backing Matt Van Epps, the Republican candidate in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, as the Dec. 2 special election approaches. Van Epps also has the support of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, creating a high-profile endorsement in a closely watched race.
The endorsement comes amid controversy over a campaign ad that features Van Epps in a U.S. Army uniform. A complaint filed by Dillon Scott argues that the ad could mislead voters by implying official sponsorship or endorsement by the military, raising questions about ethics and the use of military imagery in political campaigns.
Trump urged voters to rally for Van Epps, positioning the endorsement as part of a broader effort to strengthen his campaign in the district. The Tennessee race sits in a key district whose outcome could influence the state’s political landscape as the special election draws near.
The case highlights the tension between political support and military protocol, with critics noting that service members generally face restrictions on appearances in political materials. Proponents argue that campaign ads are protected political speech, while still navigating the ethical implications of using military identity in political messaging.
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