The State of Tennessee has become a focal point of political controversy after two Democratic Black state lawmakers were expelled from their positions for participating in a protest against gun violence. Tennessee state Reps. Justin Jones (Nashville) and Rep. Justin Pearson (Memphis) were removed from their positions, leaving about 140,000 voters in primarily Black districts without representation. The situation has sparked debate and outrage, bringing issues of race and representation in Tennessee politics to the forefront. Here are 4 key points you need to know about the Tennessee Three:
Who are the Tennessee Three?
The recent expulsions of two Democratic Black state lawmakers in Tennessee have sparked controversy and debate. Tennessee state Reps. Justin Jones (Nashville) and Rep. Justin Pearson (Memphis) were expelled after participating in a protest against gun violence. The third member of the group, Rep. Gloria Johnson (D-Knoxville), a white woman, was not removed from her position.
The Expulsions Faced Swift Backlash
The expulsions have made Tennessee a new front in the battle for the future of American democracy. The former lawmakers have quickly drawn prominent supporters, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Both former lawmakers have expressed their desire to return to their positions as lawmakers, and are likely to be appointed or to run in a special election to reclaim their seats.
A Large Amount of Voters Have Now Been Disenfranchised in the State
In separate votes, the GOP supermajority expelled Jones and Pearson, leaving about 140,000 voters in primarily Black districts in Nashville and Memphis with no representation in the House. The expulsions were seen as retaliation for their role in the protest, which unfolded in the aftermath of a school shooting in Nashville that killed six people.
The Expulsions Have Highlighted Poor Race Relations In the State
The situation has raised questions about race and representation in Tennessee politics. Johnson has suggested that race was likely a factor on why Jones and Pearson were ousted but not her, telling reporters it “might have to do with the color of our skin.” The expulsions have sparked outrage and calls for change, with many calling for the reinstatement of the expelled lawmakers.
