10/08/2025
🗳️Aftyn won yesterday, but here's why we can't stop now.
Let me be clear about what happened: This was a PRIMARY election. Aftyn Behn won the Democratic nomination for Tennessee's Congressional District 7. That's huge - but it's only Step One.
The matchup is set:
On December 2nd, Aftyn will face Republican Matt Van Epps in the general election. Van Epps is a former commissioner in Gov. Bill Lee's administration, West Point graduate, and Army combat helicopter pilot. He won the 11-way Republican primary with Trump's endorsement and over 51% of the vote.
Let's be real about the challenge:
CD7 is a heavily Republican district. Trump carried it by 22+ points in 2024. This is classified as R+10, meaning Republicans have a significant built-in advantage.
But here's why it matters that you show up:
Democrats have been overperforming in special elections nationwide this year - improving by double digits in Iowa, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Special elections are different. They're about energy, enthusiasm, and who actually votes.
Look at yesterday: only 12.79% of registered voters participated. Out of over 530,000 registered voters in CD7, just 67,856 people voted in the primary.
The December 2nd general election will have:
- Higher turnout (which changes everything)
- National attention and resources
- Voters who skipped the primary but show up for generals
- A chance to send a message about what Tennessee values
Even if you think the outcome is predetermined, your vote matters. Close races get attention. Strong showings build momentum. And sometimes - especially in special elections - upsets happen when people assume they won't.
Mark your calendar: December 2, 2025
Democracy isn't a spectator sport. Show up. 🇺🇸