Three Democratic lawmakers in the Tennessee House of Representatives are facing expulsion after being stripped of their committee assignments for taking part in protests against gun violence. The trio, Reps. Justin Jones and Justin J. Pearson from Memphis, and Gloria Johnson from Knoxville, participated in gun reform demonstrations following a shooting that killed six people at the Covenant School in Nashville.
The lawmakers' actions prompted a response from Tennessee House Republicans who voted to strip them of their committees with potential expulsion coming later this week. House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R) called their actions "unacceptable" and had previously threatened disciplinary action against them.
The three Democrats have been vocal advocates for gun reform since joining the legislature. They argue that stricter laws would help prevent future tragedies like the one at Covenant School.
Rep. Johnson released a statement saying she was "disappointed but not surprised" by the move to expel her and her colleagues from the legislature. She went on to say that they would continue to fight for what they believe is right regardless of any consequences.
The Hill has reached out to Speaker Sexton and all three lawmakers for further comment on this developing story.