Tennessee House of Representatives Moves to Expel Three Democratic Lawmakers for Role in Gun Control Protest

Tennessee Republicans took steps Monday to expel three Democratic state representatives from the House of Representatives for their role in a gun control protest at the state Capitol last Thursday. The resolution declared that the three had participated in “disorderly behavior” and “did knowingly and intentionally bring disorder and dishonor to the House of Representatives.”

The three Democratic lawmakers, Reps. Gloria Johnson of Knoxville, Justin Jones of Nashville and Justin Pearson of Memphis, had led chants from the House floor with supporters in the gallery last Thursday, according to CNN affiliate WSMV.

The move has caused a chaotic and fiery confrontation between lawmakers and supporters opposing the move and has further fractured an already deep political division inside the Tennessee Legislature. The resolution has been met with strong opposition from Democrats and gun control advocates, who argue that the move is an attempt to silence the voices of those calling for gun reform.

The Tennessee House of Representatives is dominated by Republicans, who hold a 73-26 majority. If the resolution is passed, it would be the first time in the state’s history that a lawmaker has been expelled from the House.

The resolution is expected to be taken up by the House Rules Committee on Tuesday, where it will be debated and voted on. If it passes, it will then be sent to the full House for a final vote. The outcome of the vote is uncertain, as both sides are expected to make strong arguments for and against the resolution.