The tension between the Hubble constant ($H_0$) inferred from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and that measured from late-time observations, such as the local distance ladder, is a major challenge in modern cosmology. Early dark energy (EDE) has been proposed as a possible resolution to the $H_0$ tension, but it typically worsens the $S_8$ tension by enhancing the small-scale matter power spectrum due to an increased cold dark matter density. To address this issue, we propose a model that combines EDE with an interacting dark energy-dark matter (iDEDM) scenario, and investigate whether this mixed model can simultaneously resolve both tensions. We find that the DE-DM interaction suppresses the growth of structure and reduces $S_8$, while EDE contributes to increase $H_0$, although less effectively than in the EDE-only case. Our Markov chain Monte Carlo analysis using Planck 2018, Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) baryon acoustic oscillation, Dark Energy Survey (DES), Pantheon+, and SH0ES data shows that the mixed model provides modest improvements in both tensions, although it does not fully resolve either. This limitation appears to stem from the fact that both EDE and iDEDM independently favor a higher present-day matter density, which reduces the angular diameter distance and limits the degree to which EDE can lower the sound horizon.

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• Cosmic microwave background
• Cosmological parameters
• Cosmology
• Dark energy
• Dark matter