On eve of election, Trump backs Matt Van Epps in District 7 race
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Photo: courtesy of the Van Epps campaign.
President Trump sent shockwaves through the District 7 U.S. House race on Friday, announcing his endorsement of Matt Van Epps.
Why it matters: The backing of Trump is rocket fuel for a candidate in a Republican primary, making Van Epps the clear favorite heading into Election Day on Tuesday.
Driving the news: Trump's endorsement created a cascading effect. After Trump's announcement, fellow District 7 Republican candidate Lee Reeves announced he is suspending his campaign.
- It's too late for Reeves to take his name off the ballot, but he asked his supporters to vote for Van Epps.
- State Sen. Jack Johnson and Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs also announced their backing of Van Epps.
The big picture: Van Epps has now earned a series of crucial endorsements. Retired U.S. Rep. Mark Green endorsed Van Epps to be his replacement.
- Last week, Gov. Bill Lee also announced he is backing Van Epps, who served as the governor's Department of General Services commissioner.
- U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan used his political action committee to run ads in support of Van Epps.
State of play: Van Epps had been slugging it out in a crowded primary field, which has attracted a glut of outside spending.
- In addition to Reeves, state lawmakers Gino Bulso and Jody Barrett are also vying for the nomination.
What he's saying: Trump cited Van Epps' military service in his endorsement. Van Epps is a West Point graduate and decorated Army helicopter pilot.
- "Matt knows the WISDOM and COURAGE required to Defend our Country, Support our Incredible Military/Veterans, and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH," Trump said in a statement.
- Van Epps called Trump's backing "an incredible honor."
What's next: The primary election is Tuesday, Oct. 7. The winner will then face off against the Democratic nominee in a special election on Dec. 2.