Expulsion of Montana Lawmaker Sparks Outrage: The Latest Example of Partisan Politics Punishing Dissent
- Posted on May 3, 2023
- News
- By Top Stories
- 239 Views

Republican lawmakers in Montana voted to expel Representative
Zephyr after she stated that they would be responsible for any harm caused to
transgender youth if they restricted medical care for them. Her expulsion was
challenged in court, but a district judge ruled that he did not have the
authority to reinstate her.
The controversy arose after Rep Zephyr opposed a bill that
aimed to prohibit gender-affirming care for transgender youth in Montana. She
commented that lawmakers should see “the blood on their hands” during a prayer,
referring to the increased suicide risk among transgender individuals.
State Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s attorneys argued that
reinstating her would violate the House’s “exclusive constitutional authority”
to discipline its members, and the judge agreed. Rep Zephyr disagreed with the
ruling and suggested a possible appeal, but with the legislative session about
to end, the appeal would likely have little impact.
Rep Zephyr’s expulsion is the latest example of a
Republican-controlled legislature punishing a Democratic lawmaker who opposes
policies supported by conservatives. In April, two black Democrats were
expelled from the Tennessee legislature for leading protests in support of gun
safety after a mass shooting in Nashville.
For more such news, visit our website www.topstories.com, where we
share unbiased and true stories of the world.