Democratic Candidate in Tennessee Special Election Previously Advocated Police Abolition

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — November 22, 2025 — Aftyn Behn, a Democratic candidate in Tennessee’s upcoming special election for the U.S. House of Representatives, has drawn attention after past social media posts surfaced in which she advocated for abolishing and defunding the police. The posts, which have since been deleted, were revealed just weeks before the special election, prompting scrutiny from political observers and opponents.

According to authorities familiar with the matter, Behn’s social media history includes calls to dismantle traditional law enforcement structures, aligning with far-left activist positions. The posts reportedly urged the complete abolition of police departments and the redirection of funds to community-based alternatives. These views have been a point of contention in the campaign, with critics arguing they could alienate moderate voters in the district.

Behn secured the Democratic nomination earlier this year and is vying to fill the congressional seat left vacant by the previous representative’s resignation. The special election is scheduled for early December, and both parties are intensifying their efforts to mobilize voters.

Campaign officials for Behn have not publicly addressed the resurfaced posts, and no formal statement has been issued regarding the candidate’s current stance on policing. Observers note that the deletion of the posts may signal an attempt to moderate her public image ahead of the election.

Tennessee’s political landscape, particularly in the district where the special election is taking place, tends to favor more centrist candidates, making Behn’s earlier advocacy for police abolition a potentially controversial issue. Analysts suggest that the revelation could impact undecided voters, especially given the national debate over policing and public safety.

Opponents have seized on the information to question Behn’s suitability for office, emphasizing concerns about public safety and law enforcement support. The Republican candidate has highlighted the posts in campaign materials, framing them as evidence of extreme views that do not represent the district’s values.

The special election is drawing significant attention as it could influence the balance of power in the House of Representatives. Both parties are investing resources and attention into the race, which has become a focal point for broader discussions about policing, criminal justice reform, and community safety.

Behn’s campaign has focused on issues such as economic development, healthcare access, and education, but the emergence of these past social media posts has shifted some of the public discourse toward law enforcement policy. Voters will weigh these factors as they prepare to cast their ballots in the coming weeks.

As of now, the election remains highly competitive, with polls indicating a close race. The impact of the controversy surrounding Behn’s previous calls to abolish the police will likely be a key factor in determining the outcome.

The special election will serve as a barometer for voter sentiment on policing and progressive policy proposals in Tennessee, offering insight into how such issues resonate in districts with mixed political leanings.