Democratic congressional candidate Aftyn Behn faced scrutiny during a recent interview on CNN’s “Inside Politics Sunday,” where she defended a series of controversial remarks made prior to her candidacy. Behn, who is campaigning for Tennessee’s 7th District, acknowledged her past comments but emphasized that she was a “private citizen” at the time.
In 2020, Behn expressed her disdain for various aspects of Nashville on the podcast “Year old GRITS.” She also posted tweets that included support for the notion of “defunding the police.” When questioned by CNN host Manu Raju about whether she regretted those statements, Behn stated, “Yeah, I said that during the George Floyd moment when the entire country was demanding accountability and safer policing.”
She elaborated that her focus now is on community safety and investment. “Communities need investment — they need investment to be safe,” Behn continued, advocating for enhanced mental health services and youth programs to combat crime. She highlighted that her constituents are primarily concerned with safety and affordability.
Raju pressed Behn further regarding her earlier comments about Nashville, where she stated, “I hate the city, I hate the bachelorettes, I hate the pedal taverns, I hate country music.” In response, Behn reiterated her connection to the city, acknowledging that while she may roll her eyes at certain local trends, her campaign is about addressing larger issues affecting families in Middle Tennessee.
Behn also previously described Tennessee as a “racist state” in a 2019 opinion piece for the Tennessean. She wrote, “Racism is in the air we breathe, permeating the State Capitol, codified in the legislation being passed at the detriment of women, communities of color, and the working poor.”
This commentary adds another layer to her candidacy as she seeks to represent a district that is gearing up for a special election on July 4, 2025, following the resignation of Republican Representative Mark Green. Behn’s remarks may resonate with some voters while alienating others, making her campaign a focal point in Tennessee’s political landscape.
As the election approaches, how Behn navigates her past comments could significantly influence her support among constituents.
