‘She hates Christianity’: Trump Targets Democratic Challenger as Republicans Work to Hold Tennessee’s 7th District

Former President Donald Trump criticized Democratic candidate Aftyn Behn and supported Republican Matt Van Epps in Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District, where voters lined up for hours. The Tuesday special election has garnered national interest as both parties prepare for the 2026 elections.

Trump’s Monday night call startled Van Epps rallygoers. Trump told House Speaker Mike Johnson’s callers that Behn’s religion and culture troubled him. He considered Van Epps the best contender for a 40-year Republican stronghold.

Trump said Behn “hates Christianity” and “hates country music,” indicating her Tennessee upbringing. Behn questioned the state legislature’s religious relevancy in a 2024 podcast. GOP activists retrieved audio. She worried pastors and religious groups would influence Capitol choices.

Behn discussed Nashville’s tourism culture and the nation’s image in a 2020 podcast.

In a Monday interview, Behn claimed Trump’s attacks on workers ignore their issues. She said the election should focus on rising costs of living, health care, and helping Tennesseans check their finances, not podcast segments.

The 36-year-old Democrat must stand. Pre-election surveys favor Van Epps because of in-person support. Early results favor Behn, but others say Van Epps leads the GOP.

Republican victories in the 7th District were large. Former congressman Mark Green won by over 20 points in 2022 and 2024 despite redistricting making the area more competitive.

Democrats think an unexpectedly close result could impact voters before 2026 midterms. Behn’s unexpected upset halved the GOP’s House lead, giving Democrats momentum heading into a pivotal election year.

Both sides expect the race to peak in the last hours. Tennessee voters will decide Tuesday whether to blue the district or keep it Republican as it has been for decades.

Sources

The Associated Press
Emerson College Polling/The Hill
Newsweek