Progressive Democrat Aftyn Behn in Tight Race for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional Seat
Aftyn Behn is a rising Democratic politician from Tennessee, currently contesting a high-stakes special election for the U.S. House in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. Her candidacy has drawn national attention due to the district’s conservative history and the sharp political contrasts between her and her Republican opponent.
Background and Early Career
Aftyn Alyssa Behn was born on November 24, 1989, in Knoxville, Tennessee. She studied at the University of Texas at Austin, earning both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in social work. Before entering politics, Behn worked extensively in social services and community advocacy, including as a healthcare organizer for the Tennessee Justice Center. Her career has been rooted in grassroots activism, focusing on healthcare access, workers’ rights, and social justice.
In October 2023, Aftyn Behn was elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives from District 51, succeeding Anthony Davis. Her tenure in the state legislature has been marked by progressive stances on healthcare, education, and workers’ protections.
The 2025 Special Election
Aftyn Behn is the Democratic nominee in the December 2, 2025 special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, a seat vacated by Rep. Mark Green. This district is traditionally Republican, with Donald Trump winning it by 22 points in 2024. Despite this, recent polling shows Behn trailing her opponent, Republican Matt Van Epps, by only two points (48–46), suggesting a surprisingly competitive race.
Her campaign has relied heavily on grassroots mobilization, with volunteers organizing “bridge brigades” across suburban and rural counties near Nashville. These groups wave flags and display illuminated signs urging voters to support Behn, signaling enthusiasm among Democratic supporters.
Controversies and Criticism
Behn’s candidacy has not been without controversy. Past social media posts and podcast remarks have resurfaced, including a deleted 2020 tweet where she appeared to justify burning down police stations. Critics have also highlighted her earlier disdain for aspects of Tennessee’s culture, such as country music and conservative traditions.
Former President Donald Trump has directly attacked Behn, urging Tennessee voters to reject her. In a Truth Social post, he accused her of “hating Christianity” and wanting to take away guns, open borders, and support transgender participation in sports. Behn has responded by distinguishing between her past activism as a private citizen and her current role as a legislator, emphasizing her commitment to representing all constituents.
Political Significance
The race between Behn and Van Epps is being closely watched as a barometer of voter sentiment in deep-red districts. If Behn were to win, it would represent a major upset and signal potential shifts in suburban and rural voter attitudes. Her candidacy reflects the Democratic Party’s broader strategy of contesting traditionally Republican strongholds with candidates who emphasize grassroots energy and progressive values.
Conclusion
Aftyn Behn’s journey from social worker and activist to state legislator and congressional candidate illustrates the growing influence of grassroots politics in Tennessee. While her past remarks have drawn criticism, her campaign has energized supporters and narrowed the gap in a district long considered unwinnable for Democrats. The December 2 election will determine whether Behn can convert this momentum into a historic victory, or whether Tennessee’s 7th District remains firmly in Republican hands.
At just 36 years old, Aftyn Behn represents a new generation of Democratic leadership in the South, one that blends activism with legislative experience. Regardless of the outcome, her candidacy has already reshaped the conversation about what is possible in Tennessee politics.
