Emotions Run High During Tennessee Legislative Hearing on Gun Violence

A recent legislative session in Tennessee turned tense when State Representative Justin J. Pearson gave a passionate speech about the toll of gun violence in his community, recounting the emotional experience of organizing his brother’s funeral.

“I buried my brother,” Pearson said during the hearing. “I planned his entire funeral… made sure he was taken care of, even in death.”

Pearson’s words came during a heated discussion over legislative priorities, particularly surrounding gun safety measures. Expressing frustration, he criticized lawmakers for focusing on bills that he felt ignored the urgent issue of violence and its impact on everyday people.

As Pearson became more emotional, an exchange began with Republican State Representative Andrew Farmer, who defended the work ethic of the committee. “I know every member in this committee’s been here this year working,” Farmer said. “I know you may have some things going on, but you have not. So I don’t think it’s fair for you to come in front of this committee and lecture us on hard work.”

Tension quickly escalated. Pearson called the response “a pathetic excuse” and said his comments were being dismissed instead of answered with action. “Hard work isn’t just sitting here and passing legislation—it’s being in the community!” he exclaimed.

As emotions surged, Pearson appeared to step toward Farmer in anger, prompting calls for order. The outburst momentarily disrupted the session, with some lawmakers visibly stunned.

Farmer responded to the outcry by saying, “It seems that it’s very common in your party—when you disagree with a comment—to resort to yelling.” Eventually, the situation led to Pearson being removed from the room as committee members sought to restore calm and proceed with a vote on the proposed bill.

This isn’t the first time Pearson has drawn national attention. In 2023, he was briefly expelled from the legislature for participating in a protest related to gun violence, though he was quickly reinstated by his district.

The emotional exchange comes at a time when the issue of gun safety remains front and center in communities across the country. Many families impacted by violence continue to call for urgent reforms, while legislators grapple with deep divisions on how best to address the growing concern.

Despite the disagreement in the room, both sides agreed that the problem is serious. What remains uncertain is how Tennessee—and states like it—will move forward in balancing community voices, emotional testimony, and legislative priorities.

As discussions continue, many hope that the raw emotion shared in the hearing serves as a wake-up call and a reminder that behind every policy debate are real people living with loss and fear—and seeking real change.