Tennessee's GOP-led House votes to expel Democrat Justin Jones from legislature for his role in gun protest

The Republican-led House of Representatives in Tennessee has voted to expel Democrat Justin Jones from the legislature. Jones protested against gun legislation by carrying a firearm into the state Capitol. The vote, which was largely along party lines, saw 70 of the 99 members of the House voting to remove Jones from his seat. Jones had previously been arrested for disrupting a committee hearing on the legislation, and he had advocated for gun control in other protests.

This move is notable because it is rare for a legislature to expel one of its own members. It is also the first such case in Tennessee in 36 years. The politics of gun control are particularly contentious in the United States, and this vote reflects that. Republicans, who control most state legislatures, are generally pro-gun, while Democrats are in favor of more stringent gun laws.

The Tennessee legislature has been considering a number of bills that would expand gun rights in the state, including legislation that would allow people to carry guns without a permit. Jones has been a vocal opponent of these measures, and his expulsion is seen as a way to silence his opposition.

This story is an example of the ongoing political battles between Democrats and Republicans over gun control. The issue is particularly contentious because of the prevalence of gun violence in the United States. This vote shows that politicians are willing to take drastic measures to advance their agendas, even if it means removing their colleagues from office.