State Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson Expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives
State Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson Expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives
After a contentious session in the Tennessee House on Thursday two Democrat state representatives were expelled from office by their congressional colleagues.
Thursday afternoon, State Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville) (pictured above) was officially removed from the Tennessee state legislature by a vote of 72-25.
Members fell short in their effort to expel fellow Knoxville-area Democrat State Rep. Gloria Johnson (pictured below) by one vote, 65-30. A super majority of 66 was required.
Johnson’s successful defense hinged on the veteran lawmaker’s comparatively placid role in the takeover of the House Floor on March 30. The former teacher did not hold up signs or pound the podium, unlike her Democrat cohorts Jones and Pearson.
Consideration of Resolution HR0063 to expel State Rep Justin Pearson (D-Memphis) (pictured below) ended Thursday evening with the removal of the progressive firebrand by a vote of 69-26.
One of the main points of contention was that Jones used a bullhorn during an active session during Thursday’s right, while rioters attempted to break into the Capitol chambers, where state legislators’ offices are located.
Video from earlier in the day shows the now-expelled lawmaker and his counterparts entering the Tennessee House with fists raised, to much fanfare.