Justin Pearson, a Tennessee Democrat who was expelled from the state House for protesting gun violence, has been reinstated to his seat in a decisive rebuke of the Tennessee GOP. Pearson’s reinstatement comes after the Shelby County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to send him back to the House, along with another Democratic colleague who was also expelled. Pearson delivered a powerful speech after the reinstatement vote, rallying his supporters and sending a message to the lawmakers who voted to expel him. He emphasized that their fight for justice and their voices cannot be expelled.
The 28-year-old lawmaker, who represents the Memphis area, and Justin Jones, another Democrat representing Nashville, were expelled from the House for peacefully protesting gun violence following a mass shooting in Tennessee. Three 9-year-olds and three adults were killed in the shooting. Rep. Gloria Johnson, a Democrat who also participated in the protest, narrowly avoided expulsion by a single vote. Pearson and Jones are young Black men serving their first term in the House, while Johnson is a white woman in her fourth term.
Republicans accused Pearson, Jones, and Johnson of breaching decorum in the House by peacefully protesting. House Speaker Cameron Sexton even equated their actions to the violent insurrection that took place on January 6, despite the lack of violence, property damage, and arrests. This comparison drew criticism and backlash from those who saw it as an unfair characterization of the peaceful protest.
Jones was reinstated to his seat earlier by the Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County. Surrounded by supporters, Jones marched back to the Statehouse and was sworn into office on the steps of the Capitol. Pearson’s reinstatement now completes the return of the two expelled lawmakers to the House.
The reinstatement of Pearson and Jones serves as a significant rebuke to the Tennessee GOP’s decision to expel them. It highlights the support and solidarity they have from their constituents and demonstrates that their fight for justice and against gun violence will continue. Pearson’s powerful speech emphasized the unity and strength of their movement, reminding those who voted to expel them that hope, justice, and their fight cannot be silenced or expelled.
Moving forward, Pearson and his colleagues are determined to continue advocating for meaningful action on gun violence. They aim to ensure that justice prevails and that the voices of their constituents are heard. Pearson’s reinstatement and his call to “get back to work” reflect their commitment to fighting for change and pushing for legislation that addresses the root causes of gun violence.
Overall, the reinstatement of Justin Pearson to the Tennessee House is a significant victory for the Democrats and a blow to the Tennessee GOP. It highlights the resilience and determination of Pearson and his colleagues in their fight against gun violence. The support they have received from their constituents and the Shelby County Board of Commissioners is a testament to the power of unity and the importance of speaking out for justice. Pearson’s reinstatement marks a step forward in the ongoing battle for gun control and demonstrates that their fight will continue until change is achieved.
