Matt Van Epps Delivers Powerful First Speech on the House Floor

Representative Matt Van Epps, the newly sworn-in Republican from Tennessee, marked his arrival in Congress with a forceful and highly symbolic maiden speech on the House floor — a message centered on faith, patriotism, and a firm commitment to advancing the America First agenda. His remarks drew national attention not only because he is one of the newest members of the chamber, but also because his seat was crucial to preserving the GOP’s narrow majority.

Van Epps opened his speech by introducing himself through the lens of service and identity: a Christian, a husband, a father, and a U.S. Army special operations helicopter pilot who completed nine combat deployments. His military background shaped much of the tone, as he emphasized sacrifice, discipline, and an unshakable belief in American freedom. He framed his experience as the foundation of his public service, stressing that he understands firsthand what it means to defend the values the nation stands upon.

Speaking with steady conviction, Van Epps told colleagues that the strength of the country comes not from Washington, but from hardworking families across Tennessee and the nation. He praised the resilience of everyday Americans and argued that government must protect their freedoms, support their economic security, and restore trust in institutions that many voters feel have drifted away from them.

A defining moment of the speech came when he declared that his constituents “did not send me here to talk — they sent me here to act.” With that, he pledged to push aggressively for policies aligned with Donald Trump’s America First platform. Van Epps framed that agenda as a renewal of national sovereignty, a return to strong borders, and a recommitment to economic opportunity for working-class families. He promised to be a reliable vote on issues ranging from immigration enforcement to national defense and spending restraint.

The speech also carried symbolic weight for Republicans in Congress. Van Epps won his seat during a special election in Tennessee, a race that drew outsized national attention because it determined whether the GOP would maintain its tenuous majority. His victory — and his assertive opening remarks — signaled that party leadership can count on him as a disciplined and loyal member during high-stakes legislative battles expected in the coming months.

Local Tennessee leaders celebrated the tone of his debut, calling it a reflection of the district’s values: faith, family, and a fierce belief in constitutional principles. Supporters praised his focus on service and accountability, while political observers noted that his rise represents the continued influence of military veterans within the Republican Party.

As he closed his speech, Van Epps promised to remain grounded in humility, duty, and gratitude — acknowledging the voters who entrusted him with the responsibility to represent them at a defining moment in national politics. His maiden speech made clear that he intends not only to participate, but to lead with assertiveness from day one.

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