Nashville Special Election Draws National Money, Podcast Fallout
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — National attention has focused on the Dec. 2 special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District after a 2020 podcast clip resurfaced in which Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn said she “hates” Nashville, prompting criticism and debate among voters. Both parties have increased spending and deployed high-profile surrogates; MAGA Inc. reported more than $1 million backing Republican Matt Van Epps, while Behn’s campaign reported raising over $1 million from Oct. 1–Nov. 12 and holding roughly $522,000 on hand. Early voting has begun, and national groups continue advertising, organizing, and visiting the district. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- February 2020: Aftyn Behn made critical remarks about Nashville on a podcast.
- November 4, 2025: Post-election environment prompted national parties to reassess target races.
- Oct. 1–Nov. 12, 2025: Campaign finance filings show Behn’s substantial fundraising and Van Epps’s receipts.
- November 20, 2025: Multiple outlets reported heavy outside spending and the resurfaced podcast clip.
- December 2, 2025: Scheduled date for the Tennessee 7th District special election.
- Articles Published:
- 11
- Right Leaning:
- 7
- Left Leaning:
- 1
- Neutral:
- 3
- Distribution:
- Left 9%, Center 27%, Right 64%
National political committees and allied super PACs, notably MAGA Inc. and Republican National Committee-backed channels, gained amplification and reach by directing significant ad spending and high-profile surrogates into Tennessee’s 7th District special election.
Democratic nominee Aftyn Behn and her campaign suffered reputational and messaging setbacks when a February 2020 podcast clip resurfaced in late November, drawing negative attention during early voting and the closing campaign period.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
NBC News: Millions pour into Tennessee special election ahead of December vote
Democratic UndergroundFrom Center
Nashville Special Election Draws National Money, Podcast Fallout
The National Desk Access WDUN thepeterboroughexaminer.comFrom Right
Music City Fumble: Dem Candidate Said She Hates City She Wants To Represent In Congress
The Daily Wire Washington Times IJR Objectivist HotAir Townhall Daily Mail Online
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