The endorsement of Matt Van Epps by President Donald Trump on Friday not only caught political observers in Middle Tennessee by surprise but appears to have been a surprise to the Van Epps campaign as well.
The Trump post on Truth Social was clearly not coordinated with the Epps campaign since they didn’t issue their own response until about an hour later. This has raised speculation that the endorsement was actually orchestrated with Congressman Jim Jordan or the PACs that have spent millions attacking Jody Barrett.

Lee Reeves immediately joined Trump in endorsing Van Epps and suspended his own campaign.
However, there are reports that Reeves had already cancelled his last tv buys several days BEFORE the Trump announcement, indicating he already knew he was slipping further out of contention. 

Despite the Trump endorsement General Mike Flynn reiterated his endorsement of Jody Barrett. Flynn was Trump‘s initial national security advisor and had endorsed Barrett in early September, but he issued a video (posted by House Freedom Action) after the Trump endorsement of Van Epps to make it clear his endorsement of Barrett remains firm. 

Flynn also criticized the Trump endorsement with his own social media post:

“Sorry, but this endorsement is a huge mistake. Van Epps is the “Fauci” of political RINOs and is not a Trump supporter. Whatever back room deal was cut, it shows those around the @POTUS snuck this one by him. @realDonaldTrump it’s obvious you cannot pull back now, and I know you have a lot on your plate, but this is not one of your better endorsements. 

@JodyBarrett4TN is a vastly better person and candidate (and leader). He’s ahead in the current polling for very good reason—the people of District 4 want an honest and principled man who is truly America First. 

We’ll see the outcome but this is one you should have sat out. Sorry, but that is how I see it. I’ve examined the candidates and my decision is based on whether or not they will fight for the country and protect our constitution or they will protect and fill the coffers of the Republican party. 

Jody will fight to save our country.”

Stuart Cooper another Republican candidate also withdrew following the Trump post and endorsed Van Epps, too.

“After serious thought and contemplation, I’m withdrawing my candidacy for United States Congress, and requesting that all who would have voted for me would instead vote for Matt Van Epps. I’ve gotten to know Matt over the last several months as we have competed against each other for this seat. Matt is an extremely down to earth and humble individual who seems to be doing this for the right motives and reasons – to serve the folks in the Seventh District of Tennessee.Today, President Trump and Governor Lee both endorsed Matt for this seat. After having gotten to know Matt personally, I would like to do the same.”

Late Friday the Club for Growth added their endorsement for Van Epps and posted a video emphasizing the Trump endorsement.