Live updates: Tennessee win bolsters GOP as it looks to potentially brutal midterms

An Afghan national was arrested in Texas for allegedly planning to detonate his vehicle as a bomb, a plot he shared on social media platforms TikTok and Facebook. This incident follows a recent shooting in Washington, D.C., where two National Guard members were critically injured, raising concerns about security and immigration policies. President Trump has responded to these events by pausing immigration from Afghanistan.

A bipartisan deal to extend Obamacare subsidies appears to be fading as the Senate grapples with divisions between Republicans and Democrats over healthcare reform. With the deadline for subsidy renewal approaching, the lack of consensus raises concerns about the future of healthcare coverage for millions of Americans.

The House Homeland Security Committee is holding a hearing on the increasing violence against law enforcement, following a recent targeted shooting incident that critically injured two members of the West Virginia National Guard near the White House. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel amid ongoing tensions in the capital.

Cracks have emerged in the Maga coalition as Donald Trump's influence appears to be waning, with his approval ratings dropping and signs of discontent among his supporters. This shift follows a series of scandals, including the Epstein affair, which have alienated key segments of his base. The Republican party is grappling with internal fractures as it heads into future elections.

Republican Matt Van Epps won the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was marked by significant financial backing from both parties, reflecting its high stakes in a traditionally Republican stronghold.

Democrats are pushing to restrict the qualifications for immigration judges as the administration faces layoffs, highlighting concerns over the judicial system's integrity and efficiency. Concurrently, Republican Matt Van Epps has narrowly won a special House election in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%.

Republicans have secured a significant victory in a highly contested special election for a vacant House seat, reinforcing their position in the House of Representatives. This election, held in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, was crucial for the GOP as they aim to maintain their majority amidst increasing competition from Democrats.

House Republicans retained control of Tennessee's 7th Congressional District as Matt Van Epps secured a victory over Democrat Aftyn Behn in a closely watched special election held on December 2, 2025, winning by a margin of 52% to 46%.