UPDATE: Democratic Congressional candidate Aftyn Behn is facing immediate backlash after resurfaced comments from a 2020 podcast reveal her saying she “hates” Nashville, the city she aims to represent. This controversy erupted as Behn attempted to clarify her remarks in a video posted Thursday evening, amidst growing scrutiny and accusations from the GOP.
In the viral clip, Behn expressed her disdain for Nashville’s vibrant culture, stating, “I hate the city, I hate the bachelorettes, I hate the pedal taverns, I hate country music, I hate all of the things that make Nashville.” Her comments were captured during an appearance on the GRITS podcast and have since ignited a firestorm of criticism from Republican opponents.
The timing of this controversy is critical, as Behn’s campaign against Republican incumbent Matt Van Epps intensifies. She claims these resurfaced comments are a desperate tactic by the GOP, asserting, “They’re panicking because we’re close to winning.”
In her nearly two-minute response video, Behn attempted to bolster her Nashville credentials, sharing, “I’ve cried in the Country Music Hall of Fame no less than ten times.” She also voiced her frustration with the city’s reputation for bachelorette parties, saying, “Sure, I get mad at the bachelorettes sometimes.”
Republicans quickly seized on Behn’s comments, questioning her ability to represent a city she openly criticizes. The Republican National Committee stated, “If Behn hates Tennessee so much, why is she trying to represent it?”
Behn’s campaign manager, Kate Briefs, countered the GOP’s claims, stating, “Republicans are panicking and in a last-ditch attempt… are distracting from the fact that Washington Republicans are raising costs on Tennessee families.”
The race for Tennessee’s 7th congressional seat has taken on new significance following the resignation of Republican Mark Green. The Cook Political Report rates the seat as R +10, but recent shifts suggest the race is becoming more competitive, moving from “solid Republican” to “lean Republican.”
Earlier this month, significant Democratic victories have drawn more attention and resources to Behn’s campaign. Additionally, former Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed Behn, calling her race “the most competitive race in America,” although she did not campaign alongside Behn.
As the election date approaches, the stakes are higher than ever. Behn’s campaign faces a considerable challenge against Van Epps, who has garnered support from prominent Republican figures, including Donald Trump, who praised him during a recent tele-rally.
This unfolding drama not only highlights the intensity of the political climate in Tennessee but also raises questions about the impact of social media on modern campaigns. The outcome of this race could have lasting implications for both parties as they navigate an increasingly polarized electorate.
What happens next? Voters are gearing up for a contentious election season, with Behn’s comments now at the forefront of the discussion. Keep an eye on this developing story as the election date approaches and both candidates ramp up their campaigns.
