Tennessee Candidate Aftin Behn Faces Controversy
Aftin Behn, a Democratic candidate for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, is making headlines for her outspoken actions and radical views, including an open disdain for the state she aims to serve.
Behn is seeking the congressional seat in a special election on Tuesday, following the resignation of former Republican Representative Mark Green. Various footage has surfaced where Behn demonstrates a clear disdain for potential constituents, critiquing traditional roles of women as wives and mothers, and notably clashing with state officials—once being forcefully removed from Governor Bill Lee’s office.
In 2019, Behn and her activist group, Been and Enough Is Enough Tennessee, conducted a sit-in at the governor’s office, demanding a conversation about his actions regarding a colleague accused of sexual misconduct. During the sit-in, she was seen being escorted out by police while in tears and yelling.
State law enforcement warned the group that failure to evacuate could lead to arrests. Despite the warnings, Behn and others chose to remain. A month later, she made headlines again for her vocal criticisms in the Tennessee Statehouse, demanding resignations from several officials.
She aggressively declared, “I am here today to represent the communities you silenced,” while accusing lawmakers of committing violence against multiple communities. Security ultimately removed her from the chamber after that outburst.
Behn has openly stated her dislike for Nashville, the largest city in District 7, expressing contempt for the local culture, which she feels is overly centered on elements like country music and nightlife. She remarked, “I hate everything that makes Nashville what it is. It just, well, frustrates me.”
Moreover, Behn has labeled Tennessee a “racist state,” asserting that racism is ingrained in both the statehouse and lawmaking. “It’s something that adversely affects women, communities of color, and the economically disadvantaged,” she said.
In a 2022 interview, she discussed promoting training for women to perform at-home abortions, insisting on continued support for reproductive rights even amidst changing legal landscapes.
Behn’s recent endeavors have also included a pledge to introduce a “Transgender Bill of Rights” in every Congress, emphasizing the need for protections and resources for transgender individuals. She has been critical of any measures that limit access to transgender healthcare.
“We’re fighting against a dangerous political climate that puts the vulnerable at risk,” she stated.
Furthermore, Behn has expressed radical views on various social structures, labeling college sororities as elements of “white supremacy,” showcasing her polarizing stance on many societal issues.
Despite the controversies surrounding her campaign, Behn remains focused on her objectives, positioning herself as a voice for the marginalized in Tennessee.
