Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones faced demands to resign after refusing to lead the Pledge of Allegiance, citing “performative patriotism” due to Republican support for former President Donald Trump.
This led to controversy and calls for his termination, especially given his previous involvement in protests and reinstatements following expulsion.
His actions sparked anger on social media, with some calling for his resignation.
Yesterday, my Republican colleagues called on me to resign for declining to lead them in the pledge of allegiance.
I couldn’t bring myself to join their performative patriotism as they continue to support an insurrectionist for president and undermine liberty and justice for all
— Rep. Justin Jones (@brotherjones_) February 2, 2024
Despite the criticism, Jones maintained his stance against reciting the pledge, claiming it would be a mere “performance” given his beliefs and actions.
“I couldn’t bring myself to join their performative patriotism as they continue to support an insurrectionist for president and undermine liberty and justice for all,” Jones wrote.
“A state in which the Ku Klux Klan was founded is now attempting another power grab by silencing the two youngest black representatives,” Jones said.
'Tennessee Three' Democrat Justin Jones pictured standing on police car during 2020 BLM protest https://t.co/dbRL3OJEZf
— Fox News (@FoxNews) April 12, 2023
“The fact that you won’t pledge your allegiance to the very country you swore an oath of allegiance to is grounds for your termination,” one X user wrote.
“There was no insurrection. Unless you’re referring to yours,” another wrote.
“You should resign and go back to college where they approve of temper tantrums. You’re a pathetic spoiled child and you’re humiliating yourself, your family and our country. We’re done with clowns like you!” another said.
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