Five Republican Wins That Made Christmas Better

Republicans headed into Christmas with a string of developments that reinforced their electoral footing, legal strategy, and governing momentum.

From holding a competitive House seat to locking in a major confirmation, the party closed the year with tangible wins rather than talking points. Taken together, these moments offered the GOP fresh proof of durability heading into 2026.

1. GOP Holds Tennessee Seat In Crucial Special Election

Republicans successfully defended a critical House seat in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, keeping it firmly in GOP hands after a closely watched special election. Republican Tennessee Rep. Matt Van Epps defeated Democrat Aftyn Behn with 52.4% of the vote as returns neared completion.

The race followed the July resignation of former Republican Tennessee Rep. Mark Green and attracted heavy spending from both parties despite the district’s Republican history. Van Epps’ victory reassured GOP strategists that even high-profile vacancies in competitive districts can stay red.

2. Republicans Rack Up Election Integrity Court Victories

While attention focused on President Donald Trump’s fast-moving agenda, the Republican National Committee quietly secured multiple election-law wins in court. The RNC prevailed in key legal battles across Arizona, Georgia, and Washington tied to election procedures and safeguards.

“These cases represent that a lot of times, things get started and resolved during an election year, but many times they don’t, and the RNC doesn’t walk away from them,” an RNC official told the Caller. “We are here to see these things through.”