Scoop: Trump endorses Rep. Matt Van Epps' reelection campaign

Flashback: Fueled by Trump's endorsement, Van Epps, a decorated military veteran and former top state official, won a competitive Republican primary last year.

• He went on to defeat Democrat Aftyn Behn in the December special election to replace Rep. Mark Green, who retired.

What he's saying: "I strongly campaigned with Matt to defeat the Radical Left in his 2025 Special Election, and it is my Honor to support his 2026 Re-Election," Trump said in a statement.

Zoom in: In addition to Trump, Van Epps' latest raft of endorsements includes Gov. Bill Lee, four state senators, seven state representatives and a collection of local officials ranging from district attorneys to county mayors.

State of play: The legislature drew a new U.S. House map, which switched up the counties included in Tennessee's District 7. A large section of Nashville is included in the district.

What we're watching: The qualifying deadline to enter the race is Friday, which will determine what primary opponents, if any, Van Epps faces in August.