Congressman Cohen Asks Speaker Sexton to Seek Lesser Consequences for Breach of Decorum

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) has written Tennessee House of Representatives Speaker Cameron Sexton asking him to consider alternatives to expulsion for the three state Representatives involved in last week’s breach of decorum in the House Chamber.

The letter reads in part:

“As a former 25-year state Senator and current Member of Congress, I understand the need for compliance with rules in a legislative body. The three Democratic Members did violate the rules of decorum, however I believe expulsion to be too extreme a consequence. There have only been a few previous expulsions in Tennessee history, all due to violations of statutory law, such as bribery. Heightened emotions prompted by the horrific Covenant School shootings that resulted in the death of six Tennesseans, including three nine-year-olds, should be a mitigating factor in any disciplinary response. As I understand it, each Member was already removed from their committee assignments after last week’s demonstrations. Additionally, expelling these Members will result in the disenfranchisement of their constituents, who voted for them. It would also result in the special expense of primary and general elections. I urge you to consider a lesser consequence for Representatives Justin Pearson, Gloria Johnson and Justin Jones and appreciate that you will consider this request in anticipation of your final decision.”

See the entire letter here.

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