Politics are a messy business. That’s especially true when arrests start to be made.
And a top Senator was arrested in the Capitol in a wild scene caught on camera.
In a dramatic turn of events at the Georgia State Capitol on Thursday, State Senator Colton Moore (R) was forcibly removed and arrested after defying orders not to enter the House chamber during Governor Brian Kemp’s State of the State address. The incident, which was captured on video, quickly went viral, sparking widespread debate.
WATCH:
https://x.com/libsoftiktok/status/1879944480209662272
The controversy stems from Moore’s outspoken criticism of late House Speaker David Ralston, which led to his prohibition from the House chamber. The self-proclaimed “RINO Wrangler” has not shied away from controversy, and his latest confrontation adds another chapter to his contentious political career.
Following the arrest, Moore recorded a video from a medical bed, stating that he “took a bit of a beating” on his hand during the scuffle. He vowed to continue his work despite the setback.
“Today they took my freedom and liberty away as I was fighting for your liberty and freedom, but I’ll tell you what, I still have a constitutional obligation to do work,” Moore declared in the video. “I’ll still be in that legislature come tomorrow morning.”
https://x.com/realColtonMoore/status/1880014893069500926
Although his ban applies only to the House chamber, Moore remains permitted to participate in Senate proceedings.
However, his attempt to push past Georgia State Patrol officers and enter the House chamber was met with immediate resistance. In the footage, Moore can be heard arguing, “This is a joint session of the General Assembly. Your House rules do not apply.” He then attempted to force his way in, prompting officers to restrain and remove him.
The altercation culminated in Moore being escorted to Fulton County Jail. It remains unclear whether formal charges have been filed against him.
The tension between Moore and House leadership dates back to March of last year when he vehemently opposed a bill to name a building at the University of North Georgia after Ralston, who passed away in 2022.
During his speech, Moore called Ralston “one of the most corrupt Georgia leaders that we are ever going to see in my lifetime.” His remarks, delivered in the presence of Ralston’s family, drew condemnation from colleagues, including current House Speaker Jon Burns, who expelled Moore from the chamber.
Burns described Moore’s comments as “some of the vilest that you can make about a good man” and referred to Thursday’s incident as “incredibly unfortunate.”
In a statement, Burns criticized Moore for creating a “dangerous situation” by resisting law enforcement. “The integrity and decorum of this House are non-negotiable — period,” Burns said.
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones (R) also weighed in, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to focus on their responsibilities. “All elected 56 senators and 180 representatives deserve the opportunity to fulfill their responsibility to attend joint sessions,” he said.
“There is real work to be done this session, and the focus should be on delivering for the people of Georgia instead of personal grievances and egos.”
Despite the uproar, Moore remains defiant, signaling that he has no intention of backing down from his political battles.
Stay tuned to The Federalist Wire.
