Tennessee witnessed an unprecedented day in its political history on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

During a floor session, the state House considered resolutions to expel three Democratic lawmakers who had disrupted the proceedings and used a bullhorn to lead chants for gun control, the Tennessean reported.

After a 90-minute debate, Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, was expelled with a vote of 72 to 25. Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, escaped expulsion as the resolution to remove her failed by a single vote. Meanwhile, Rep. Justin J. Pearson, D-Memphis, was expelled with a vote of 69 to 26.

The recent expulsions mark the fourth occasion since the conclusion of the Civil War when House members have ousted their elected colleagues.

Written by staff