The Tennessean: “Emotions and tempers flared Monday night inside the Tennessee Capitol, just miles from the Nashville private school where three children and three staff members were slain in one of the deadliest school shootings in the state’s history.
Republican leadership in both chambers decided to press pause on legislative debate at the regularly scheduled floor sessions Monday after news of the shooting broke. Democrats, some of whom spent the day with Covenant School parents who were waiting to be reunited with their children, decried ongoing legislative efforts to expand access to firearms and called on their colleagues to take action for meaningful gun reform.
The shooting was acknowledged in an emotional prayer from a guest pastor on the Senate floor, where several people were seen wiping away tears before a swift adjournment. Senate Democrats, three of whom are from Nashville, angrily criticized the move to adjourn quickly and not allow comments about the tragedy.
An hour later, Rep. Bo Mitchell, D-Nashville, was admonished on the House floor for telling colleagues not to call themselves “pro-life” if they choose to expand access to firearms. House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, gaveled Mitchell down, suggesting he’d gone off topic from the “welcoming and honoring” agenda item. Mitchell’s microphone was temporarily turned off as he responded to Sexton, jabbing his finger at the chamber dais.
“I’ll tell you one thing: There’s six people today I can’t welcome and honor anymore into this hallowed house,” Mitchell said after his mic was turned back on. “Y’all just think about those six people and think if your guns are worth it.””