UPDATE: Joe Leurs has suspended his campaign for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District.

The lineup on the Republican side of the aisle in the special election for the seventh congressional district seat vacated by Mark Green changed dramatically on Friday. President Donald Trump endorsed Matt Van Epps, leading both Lee Reeves and Stuart Cooper to add their endorsements and suspend their campaigns. General Mike Flynn restated his endorsement for Jody Barrett, who has continued his campaign despite the Trump announcement.

“As a candidate in this important primary race, I want to reaffirm my commitment to the democratic process and to the voters of this district,” Leurs said.

“Throughout my campaign, I have made it clear that I will fully support both President Trump and the Republican Party’s nominee for Congress once that nominee is chosen by the people in the upcoming primary election.”

“Yesterday, President Trump endorsed a candidate in this race, and I respect his right to do so. Endorsements are part of the political process, not a replacement for it. The decision of who will represent the Republican Party in this district ultimately lies with the voters,” Leurs pointed out.

“The primary election has not yet occurred. Until election day (10/07/2025), there is no official nominee. I trust the Republican voters of this district to make their choice based on principles, leadership, and a shared commitment to conservative values.”

“My word is my bond, and without trust in our candidates/representatives, we have nothing. On October 8th, I will stand by my word and support President Trump and our nominee as promised,” Leurs promised.