WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch The GOP Hangs On in Tennessee, as Voters Swing Left by Double Digits
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Dec 3, 2025 Republican Matt Van Epps secures a narrow victory in a special election, raising questions about GOP strategies as voter sentiments shift left. High Democratic turnout and independents leaning toward Democrats signal potential challenges for the Republicans ahead of 2026. Discussion includes the need for a solid affordability agenda, especially in healthcare and taxes, as well as the implications of a new US-UK deal to prevent pharma tariffs, which highlights differing trade philosophies of free-market versus managed approaches.
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Unexpected Swing In A Safe GOP District
- Tennessee's 7th shifted double digits toward Democrats despite a Republican win, signaling voter dissatisfaction.
- Bill McGurn warns Republicans risk vulnerability if they fail to sell an economic message on affordability.
Independents Are Moving Back To Democrats
- Alicia Finley says high Democratic turnout and independents shifting back explain the tighter result.
- She argues independents now doubt Republicans are tackling the problems they were elected to fix.
Prove You Improve Voters' Lives
- Bill McGurn urges Republicans to prove they are improving voters' lives to prevent redistricting from being swamped.
- He recommends developing concrete market-based health-care and affordability policies to win back pocketbook voters.