Staff Reports
In Nashville, the political atmosphere is buzzing as Speaker Mike Johnson and Tennessee congressional candidate Matt Van Epps discuss immigration and its implications for America’s future. They are calling for a serious reevaluation of immigration policies, particularly those relating to the assimilation of new arrivals into American society. Their comments come amid growing concerns over the Biden administration’s handling of border security, with fears that a significant number of unvetted illegal immigrants have entered the country over the past few years.
Johnson and Van Epps believe it is time to take a page out of history and learn from past immigration practices, like those from the 1924 Immigration Act. The Speaker emphasized the importance of a thorough review of who is allowed to enter the U.S., advocating for policies that ensure immigrants are properly vetted. The current situation at the border, as reported, has led to about 20 million unauthorized immigrants entering the country, raising eyebrows about national security and social cohesion.
As they shift focus to local elections, the dynamic between candidates is palpable. Van Epps is currently in a race where he faces a progressive opponent who has recently claimed to “mature” politically. However, Van Epps argues that her alignment with the Democratic Socialists of America and her calls for defunding police do not resonate with the values of Tennessee, which stands firmly in support of law enforcement and community safety. He suggests that her radical views on various societal issues — from policing to healthcare — starkly contrast the conservative beliefs that many Tennesseans hold dear.
Polling data shows this race could be closer than expected, which worries Republican leaders given Nashville’s status as a traditionally red district. Political experts remind candidates not to take victories for granted, especially during a special election. With the holiday season upon them, interest in the election may fade unless urgent action is taken to rally the base. Speaker Johnson believes that with the right campaigning, they can educate the voters about the consequences of electing a left-leaning representative in a conservative district.
One of the critical issues in this election is affordability. Van Epps supports a plan to manage rising costs associated with healthcare, housing, and energy. He argues that true solutions exist for improving the cost of living in Tennessee, contrasting these with his opponent’s approach, which he believes would exacerbate the situation by imposing higher taxes. He points to the need for energy independence, suggesting that embracing American resources will help stabilize costs for families.
As the conversation wraps up, the camaraderie between the Speaker and Van Epps shines through, illustrating their commitment to working together for their state’s future. Their focus on combating the radical leftist agenda is clear, as is their love for Nashville, which they describe as a vibrant and essential part of their identities. With the stakes high, they aim to unite Tennesseans to bolster support for conservative values and ensure a brighter future for the state.
