Aftyn Behn, a former healthcare community organizer and current state representative, has won the Democratic nomination in the special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. Behn will face a tough challenge in the Dec. 2 general election, where she will battle for the seat formerly held by Republican Rep. Mark Green.
What Happened
On Tuesday, the Democratic Party in Tennessee chose Aftyn Behn as their nominee for the special election to fill the congressional seat left vacant by Mark Green’s resignation. Behn, a rising star in the party, is being likened to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), a comparison made by the Dickson County Democratic Party due to her progressive values and fresh approach to politics.
Behn emerged as the nominee after a competitive primary that included three state representatives and a consultant. Now, Behn faces an uphill battle in the Dec. 2 general election, where she will be pitted against Republican Matt Van Epp, who secured victory in the GOP primary.
The Political Landscape
Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District is traditionally a solidly red district, with former President Donald Trump winning it by approximately 20 points in the 2020 election. This means Behn will likely face an uphill battle in what is expected to be a fiercely contested race. Her win in the Democratic primary, however, positions her as a strong contender against Van Epp, who secured the GOP nomination with a victory in a crowded field of Republican candidates.
The Stakes
Behn’s victory comes amid a larger political struggle in the U.S. House of Representatives, where Republicans currently hold a slim majority at 219-213. This special election, along with another ongoing vacancy in Texas, will play a crucial role in shaping the balance of power in the upcoming legislative term.
Closing Line:
Aftyn Behn’s win in the Democratic primary sets the stage for a heated and closely watched race in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. As the underdog in a historically red district, Behn’s campaign will be a test of her ability to rally support and challenge entrenched political power in the region.
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