David Hogg Campaigns for Aftin Behn in Tennessee
David Hogg, a former official with the Democratic National Committee and progressive activist, made waves this weekend by campaigning in Nashville for Aftin Behn, a liberal candidate dubbed “Tennessee’s AOC.” Behn is running for a congressional seat in Tennessee’s notoriously Republican 7th District, with a special election scheduled for December 2. The Democratic Party hopes to gain traction in the area, motivated by recent electoral successes in other states.
“I’m thrilled to be here supporting Aftin’s campaign,” Hogg expressed in an Instagram video, joined by fellow young Democrats. “This district is really focused on the youth. If young people show up to vote, we have a chance! We can send a message to Trump and Republicans that we’re done with their nonsense.”
Hogg’s PAC, called Leaders We Deserve, aims to help young progressives who challenge the existing norms. Earlier this year, he stirred some controversy within the party when he announced a plan involving a $20 million investment to back primary challengers against older Democrats who he described as “drowsy at the wheel.”
After stepping down from his DNC role in June, Hogg has been concentrating on helping younger progressive candidates across the nation. His recent efforts have included support for figures like Zoran Mamdani, who recently became mayor of New York City, and Dejah Foxx, who ran in an Arizona special election earlier this year.
During Saturday’s “Young Gets It Done” rally, Hogg worked alongside Behn, engaging with local youth organizations. The 25-year-old activist has teamed up with the Tennessee High School Democrats, University of Tennessee Democrats, and other groups to mobilize young voters for Behn’s campaign.
Speaking about his motivations, Behn, who labels himself an “angry social worker,” decided to enter the congressional race after Republicans supported what he referred to as “The Big Beautiful Bill,” which he criticized as a significant giveaway to the wealthy.
Behn is not only an advocate but also serves as a state representative. He is known for his presence on social media, similar to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and maintains a Substack where he discusses various issues.
In a recent campaign event, DNC Chairman Ken Martin endorsed Behn, outlining his agenda, which aims to address healthcare costs and pursue transparency regarding certain legal documents. Meanwhile, the Republican competition includes Matt Van Epps, a former official in the Tennessee Department of General Services, who has already received backing from numerous high-profile GOP figures, including Trump and the state governor.
The upcoming election marks a crucial opportunity for Democrats, as a Democrat has not held Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District seat for decades. While Van Epps has garnered support from various Republican factions, including Trump’s, Hogg and Behn are working hard to energize the youth vote in hopes of turning the tide.
Despite the challenges ahead, the DNC’s efforts continue, with officials like deputy communications director Abhi Rahman accusing Republicans of feeling the pressure. The fight for this seat is shaping up to be a significant moment in the ongoing political battle in Tennessee.
