In a revealing turn of events just days before the special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, a video featuring Democrat candidate Aftyn Behn has resurfaced, sparking significant attention. The footage, initially recorded in 2019, depicts Behn attempting to force her way into Governor Bill Lee’s office. In a distressing display, she is seen being removed by security while screaming and sobbing uncontrollably.
The video, shared by Right Angle News Network, captures a moment of chaos. Behn, dressed in a blue jacket, is forcibly restrained by an officer, who drags her away while she continues to yell, “Don’t touch me!” Demonstrating the desperation of her demands, she had joined a multi-day sit-in protest at the State Capitol. There, protesters called for action against then-State Rep. David Byrd, who faced accusations of sexual misconduct. When state troopers intervened, they cleared the area, resulting in the group being cited for criminal trespassing.
This incident reflects a pattern in Behn’s behavior as a far-left activist and co-founder of the group Enough is Enough Tennessee. Her approach has often leaned towards disruptive activism rather than constructive dialogue. During the upheaval and protests following George Floyd’s death in 2020, Behn made headlines for justifying the burning of police stations. This radical viewpoint raises concerns about her fitness for public office, especially given her refusal to backtrack from her incendiary statements about law enforcement.
When questioned about her past remarks in an interview, Behn evaded the topic and accused her opponents of smear tactics. Her responses indicated a lack of willingness to engage seriously with her past, leaving voters to question her commitment to responsible governance.
Behn has been vocal about her anti-law enforcement stance, advocating for the abolishment and defunding of police entirely. This includes extreme proposals such as dissolving the Metro Nashville Police Department. Such rhetoric sets a stark contrast to traditional views on law enforcement, which many in the community uphold as essential for safety and order. She has also openly criticized President Donald Trump and his supporters, branding them with terms like “racists” and “bigots,” further polarizing her stance.
As the special election approaches, Behn’s past actions and statements will likely serve as significant talking points, shaping voters’ perceptions. The race, culminating on December 2, presents Tennessee’s electorate with a choice between more radical approaches to governance and perhaps more conventional, traditionally aligned candidates. With early voting concluding soon, the fallout from this video and her past behavior could heavily influence the outcome in a district that may be looking for steady representation in contrast to rising radicalism.
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