A year after leaving the White House, former Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprising return to the campaign trail this Tuesday, appearing in Nashville, Tennessee, to rally support for Democratic congressional candidate Aftyn Behn. The appearance marked Harris’s first foray back into actively campaigning for a candidate since the conclusion of the 2024 presidential election.
The visit was a whirlwind, beginning with a stop at Fisk University, a historically Black institution, and culminating in a book tour event for her memoir, “107 Days,” at the iconic Ryman Auditorium. But it was the canvassing kickoff event for Behn that drew the most attention, signaling a renewed commitment to Democratic efforts in a challenging political landscape.
Harris addressed a crowd at Nashville’s Hadley Park, emphasizing the growing power of the South in national politics. While she didn’t directly mention Behn’s name, her message was clear: mobilize voters and fight for change. This appearance followed recent Democratic successes in Virginia and New Jersey, fueling optimism within the party.
The Tennessee 7th Congressional District has long been considered Republican territory, with decades passing since a Democrat last claimed victory there. Yet, Democrats are investing heavily in Behn’s campaign, viewing her as a potential catalyst for change. She’s been dubbed the “AOC of Tennessee” for her progressive ideals and energetic approach.
Adding to the momentum, prominent figures like former Democratic National Committee vice chair David Hogg have also campaigned alongside Behn, specifically targeting young voters. Hogg urged them to turn out in force, framing the election as a direct rebuke of the previous administration and its policies.
Behn herself is a state representative and community organizer, driven to run for Congress by what she describes as a “giveaway to the wealthy” enacted by the state legislature. Her platform focuses on issues like affordable healthcare and economic justice, resonating with a growing segment of the electorate.
The race is shaping up to be a fierce contest. Republican Matt Van Epps, a former state commissioner, has secured endorsements from influential figures including the previous president, the current governor, and the retiring incumbent. He also benefits from significant financial support from outside political groups.
The political stakes are high, with both parties pouring resources into the district. A substantial advertising campaign is underway, and both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee have staff on the ground, working to mobilize their respective bases. The outcome in Tennessee’s 7th District could signal a shift in the political landscape, or reaffirm the region’s longstanding conservative leanings.
