In a significant effort to flip Tennessee’s deeply Republican 7th Congressional District, the Democratic Party has mobilized national resources behind nominee Aftyn Behn. This push follows the recent November 4 elections, marking a pivotal moment that could lead to a rare red-to-blue House seat change in the United States. On November 8, Ken Martin, Chair of the Democratic National Committee, rallied a group of 85 canvassers at Charlotte Park Elementary School in Nashville, emphasizing the potential for victory. “Anyone who’s within 16 points right now is within striking distance,” Martin stated, underscoring Behn’s competitive position against her Republican opponent, Matt Van Epps. The general election is set for December 2, filling the vacancy left by former U.S. Representative Mark Green.
Redrawn in 2021, the 7th District encompasses areas including Clarksville and parts of North and West Nashville, extending down to the Alabama border. Martin highlighted Behn’s qualifications, noting her background as a social worker and community organizer. “You’ve got someone in Aftyn Behn who knows the struggle of average everyday Tennesseans; people who want hope, people who need a champion,” he said.
The outcome of this election could have broader implications for the balance of power in the U.S. House, where Republicans currently maintain a narrow six-seat majority. Martin remarked on the shifting dynamics, stating, “Some of the reddest parts of the area right now are really in jeopardy.” He observed that even staunch Trump supporters are showing signs of discontent, suggesting a rising energy among Democratic voters.
Despite the enthusiasm, the 7th District is historically a Republican stronghold. Green won re-election last year by a substantial margin of 22 points. In response to Behn’s campaign, Tennessee Republicans have intensified their criticisms, labeling her as “radical” for aligning with Democratic figures such as U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett. During a joint town hall meeting on November 7 at Watson Grove Baptist Church in Nashville, Behn expressed optimism about the upcoming election. “We can turn this ‘safe red’ seat into the most competitive seat in America,” she declared.
The Tennessee Democratic Party has been working diligently to engage voters in the 7th District, particularly after experiencing successful down-ballot results in recent elections. Rachel Campbell, Chair of the Tennessee Democratic Party, noted a resurgence in Democratic activity, drawing parallels to recent trends in Virginia. “That energy is wonderful nationally, and it really helps us build an energy and a fire here,” she stated.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has also been laying groundwork for the upcoming 5th Congressional District race. Campbell explained that national Democrats are recognizing the necessity of re-establishing a foothold in the South, stating, “Without the South, there’s no future. So they’re organizing again, and we’re all excited about it.” Martin reiterated the importance of Tennessee in the national political landscape, predicting that the state will gain electoral power in the coming years.
In a recent press conference, Behn addressed the critical issue of health care costs in Tennessee. Joined by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Sheldon Whitehouse, she raised awareness about the impending expiration of COVID-19-era health insurance tax credits. According to the nonpartisan Sycamore Institute, approximately 200,000 Tennesseans could face unaffordable coverage if these subsidies are not extended. Behn highlighted the dramatic potential increases in health insurance premiums, specifically in Davidson County, where some family plans could rise by as much as 281%.
Reflecting on her conversations with constituents, Behn shared a poignant story of a Republican voter from Clarksville. “This isn’t about politics,” the voter reportedly said, “This is about survival.” The urgency of these issues resonates strongly with many voters in the district.
As the December 2 election approaches, the stakes are high for both parties. Behn’s campaign represents not only a chance for a Democratic victory but also a critical test of the party’s ability to mobilize and connect with voters in traditionally Republican areas. With national attention focused on Tennessee, the outcome could resonate far beyond state lines, potentially signaling broader trends in American politics heading into the next election cycle.
