Story perspectives

High-Stakes Election: Behn vs. Trump-Backed Van Epps

11/27/2025

Summary

Story summary

The December 2 special election for the U.S. House seat vacated by Republican Mark Green is drawing attention.
Aftyn Behn faces Mark Van Epps, a Republican candidate endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Behn's campaign emphasizes addressing the affordability crisis.
Van Epps focuses on conservative values and security.
Conservative groups have invested $3.3 million, underscoring its importance and that a Behn victory could signal Democratic gains locally despite a gerrymander.

History

Historical Context

The 2017 special election for Georgia's 6th District, held on April 18 and culminating in a runoff on June 20, saw Republican Karen Handel narrowly defeat Democrat Jon Ossoff, 51.8% to 48.2%. Ossoff's campaign raised over $30 million, reflecting a significant Democratic push in a historically Republican area, signaling potential shifts in voter sentiment ahead of the 2018 midterms.

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Story summary

The December 2 special election for the U.S. House seat vacated by Republican Mark Green is drawing attention.
Aftyn Behn faces Mark Van Epps, a Republican candidate endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Behn's campaign emphasizes addressing the affordability crisis.
Van Epps focuses on conservative values and security.
Conservative groups have invested $3.3 million, underscoring its importance and that a Behn victory could signal Democratic gains locally despite a gerrymander.

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