BREAKING: Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn is facing intense backlash today after resurfaced comments in which she claimed to “hate” Nashville have gone viral. The remarks, originally made in a February 2020 podcast, have sparked outrage and fueled Republican attacks as her congressional campaign heats up ahead of the upcoming election.
In the now-infamous clip, Behn, who is vying for a congressional seat to represent Nashville, expressed disdain for the city’s vibrant culture. “I hate the city, I hate the bachelorettes, I hate the pedal taverns, I hate country music,” she stated, emphasizing her frustration with Nashville’s party scene.
In response to the backlash, Behn posted a nearly two-minute video on social media, declaring, “NO, I DO NOT HATE THE CITY I REPRESENT LOL.” She accused the Republican National Committee of spreading “wild rumors” to undermine her campaign, asserting that her comments have been taken out of context.
Behn attempted to bolster her Nashville credentials by sharing personal anecdotes, stating, “I’ve cried no less than ten times in the Country Music Hall of Fame,” and admitting she frequents the Ryman Auditorium “just to hang out.” Despite her attempts to clarify, she acknowledged her discomfort with aspects of Nashville’s nightlife culture, admitting, “Sure, I get mad at the bachelorettes sometimes, I get mad at the pedal taverns.”
The timing of these resurfaced comments is critical, as Behn’s campaign has gained momentum, with her team suggesting that the GOP is “panicking” as they perceive her as a serious contender. “The Republican eye of Sauron has finally shifted toward moi,” she quipped, alluding to the scrutiny she faces as she seeks to challenge Republican candidate Matt Van Epps.
Political analysts note that Behn’s race is pivotal, with the seat she seeks having previously been held by Republican Mark Green, who resigned earlier this summer. The Cook Political Report rates the district as R +10, although recent shifts have moved it from “solid Republican” to “lean Republican.”
The political stakes are high, with Behn receiving endorsements from notable groups such as the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC and the AFL-CIO, while Van Epps has backing from the National Rifle Association and the Club for Growth PAC.
In a recent campaign event, Kamala Harris praised Behn’s race as “the most competitive race in America,” further drawing attention to the election. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump endorsed Van Epps through a tele-rally, calling him a “true America First patriot.”
As the race intensifies, Behn’s comments are being weaponized by her opponents, prompting questions about her ability to effectively represent Nashville. The Republican National Committee challenged her, asking, “If Behn hates Tennessee so much, why is she trying to represent it?”
Behn’s campaign manager, Kate Briefs, dismissed the GOP’s accusations as desperate attempts to distract from pressing issues, claiming that Republicans are “raising costs on Tennessee families and ripping away their health care.”
The fallout from Behn’s remarks highlights the increasingly polarized political landscape in Tennessee as both parties ramp up their efforts ahead of the election. With significant Democratic victories previously this month, all eyes will be on Nashville as the campaign unfolds.
Stay tuned for further developments in this high-stakes congressional race.
