Jan 13, 2026 - Politics

Aftyn Behn won't run for Congress in 2026

Nate Rau

State Rep. Aftyn Behn addresses supporters at her watch party last month for the U.S. House District 7 special election. Photo: Jon Cherry/Getty Images

State Rep. Aftyn Behn said she will bypass a repeat bid for Congress in favor of running for reelection to the state legislature, citing safety concerns.

Why it matters: Behn energized progressives and grassroots activists during her failed bid for Congress.

Behn's showing in last month's U.S. House special election cemented her as a rising star in Nashville politics and left observers wondering about her next political move.

Driving the news: After besting a competitive Democratic primary field, Behn lost the race to the new U.S. Rep. Matt Van Epps by 9 percentage points for a seat Republicans had previously won by 22 points.

Yes, but: Behn said in an Instagram post that last year's campaign took a physical and emotional toll after she received "a daily deluge" of violent threats Her family was also harassed and stalked online, Behn said.

After consulting with her family and her team, Behn said she'll run to keep her state House seat instead.

What she's saying: "This decision is about keeping myself and my family safe while continuing to care loudly for my constituents," she said in a press release.

What's next: In addition to seeking reelection, Behn said she plans to launch a new organizing project called Unrigged.

She added that she plans to use her remaining campaign funds, totaling less than $200,000, to "build organizing capacity in Tennessee while honoring our campaign commitment to fund a Davidson County organizer for the '26 cycle."

The intrigue: While closing the door on a rematch with Van Epps in 2026, Behn will remain a name to watch in future elections.

She made a "pinky promise" to supporters that she will run for higher office in the future.

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Aftyn Behn won't run for Congress in 2026

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