This is Not What Democracy Looks Like

by Rod Williams, May 12, 2026- Last week the state legislature voted to adopt new Congressional maps, which eliminated Tennessee's only Congressional seat held by a Democrat.  On the one hand, I am disappointed. I want to see Dems take the House in the midterm because I want Donald Trump's authoritarian agenda and policies to be derailed and I want to see Congressional oversight and investigation of Trump's massive corruption and other misdeeds.   On the other hand, I think it is time to end racial gerrymandering. I want to see racial preferences and carve-outs end. It is time to stop discriminating on account of race. This post is not about the merits of that issue, however.

If you watch the news, you have seen reports of the disruptions in the Tennessee House chambers during the proceedings. This is a disgrace. Any sympathy I had for those who felt the adoption of these new maps was a reimposition of Jim Crow evaporated in light of the disgraceful demonstrations in the House, both from guests in the gallery and in the halls outside the chamber, and from legislators inside the chamber. In the chambers of the legislative body, there is no place for foghorns, banners, marches, or standing on one's desk with banners. 

Legislative deliberations should occur in a calm, dignified, respectful manner. Robert's Rules and House protocol should be observed. The rules exist for a reason. Those who violate the rules of the House should be expelled. When observers become participants and unruly, they should be removed. I know the House has expelled members before for inappropriate behavior, and the legislator was reelected. So be it. Expel them again.

Years ago, I had to sit in court numerous times due to an ongoing battle with my crazy ex-wife, who wanted to deny me visitation with my daughter and make my life miserable. While awaiting my case to be heard, I had a bailiff make me put away a newspaper I was reading.  I have seen people expelled from the courtroom and their cases rescheduled because they were dressed inappropriately.

While serving in the Metro Council, I have seen large crowds of agitated spectators in the chamber, passionate over a zoning proposal, a budget cut, or a tax increase. Order was maintained. Waving signs was prohibited and an outburst would lead to an admonition from the Chair and a threat to clear the chamber. Even applause was prohibited.

I would like to see the House impose the same kind of decorum as I witness in a courtroom or the Metro Council chamber. Democracy requires the ability to conduct business in a calm, deliberative manner. A deliberative body should not have to function in a climate of mob hysteria. 

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