Al Gore encourages Democrats to make a 'shock wave' in Tennessee election

WASHINGTON Former Vice President Al Gore returned to the campaign trail to rally support for Democrat Aftyn Behn in Tennessees 7th congressional district special election. Speaking passionately to voters, Gore emphasized the urgency of the moment as Behn challenges Republican Matt Van Epps in a district long dominated by the GOP.

"Ive never witnessed political shifts happening this quickly and dramatically," Gore remarked during a virtual event for Behn ahead of the December 2 election. He criticized the current federal administration, pointing to rising costs of groceries and healthcare while highlighting what he described as corruption at the highest levels of government.

The Tennessee 7th district, encompassing 14 counties in Middle Tennessee and parts of Nashville, was carried by Donald Trump with a 22-point lead in 2024. However, Behns campaign has gained momentum, narrowing the gap in what had been considered a safe Republican seat. Trump has personally campaigned for Van Epps in an effort to secure the district for the GOP.

Gore condemned congressional Republicans for supporting Trumps actions and stressed the importance of the election. "Your vote can send more than a message; it can create a real shock wave that changes the course of our nation," he said.

Also joining the virtual rally was Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who praised Behns campaign and framed the election as a struggle for working Americans rather than a left-versus-right debate. "This close race reflects how people across the country are feeling," Ocasio-Cortez said.

Since his 2000 presidential loss in Tennessee, Gore has largely stayed out of electoral politics, focusing instead on global climate advocacy as founder of the Climate Reality Project. During the rally, he drew on Tennessees historical role in advancing civil rights and womens suffrage to inspire voters to participate.

"Tennessee has repeatedly risen to historic moments," Gore said. "By electing Aftyn Behn, Tennesseans can help steer our country back on the right path."

Author: Noah Whitman