Footage from a 2019 protest at the Tennessee State Capitol has recently resurfaced, bringing renewed attention to an incident involving Democratic congressional candidate Aftyn Behn. The video captures a chaotic and emotional scene as Behn was forcibly removed from the office of Republican Governor Bill Lee during a demonstration that escalated quickly.
At the time, Behn was part of a sit-in organized by the activist group Enough Is Enough Tennessee. The group had gathered inside the capitol to demand that Governor Lee publicly call for the resignation of then-state Representative David Byrd, who was facing allegations of sexual misconduct. Their protest aimed to pressure state leadership into taking a stronger stance on the issue.
The situation intensified on April 17, 2019, when the doors to the governor’s office briefly opened. Several protesters attempted to enter in hopes of speaking directly with Lee, but security officers immediately blocked their path. In the confrontation that followed, Behn was physically dragged away while shouting.
Video footage shows her crying and collapsing to her knees as officers continued clearing the hallway. State troopers warned the group they would be arrested if they did not leave. While some protesters complied, Behn and others refused and were taken into custody.
The incident continues to draw mixed reactions, reflecting ongoing debate over protest tactics and political accountability.
