Georgia State Sen. Colton Moore, a vocal critic of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her prosecution of President-elect Donald Trump, was forcibly removed and arrested on Thursday after defying an order barring him from entering the Georgia House chamber.
Local 3 News reports that Moore had been prohibited from the chamber for making offensive comments about a deceased former colleague, which angered fellow Republicans. Despite the ban, Moore attempted to enter the chamber where Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp was scheduled to deliver his State of the State address.
Video footage shows Moore repeatedly trying to bypass security to access the chamber. At one point, he attempted to wedge himself through the door but was thrown to the ground by security officials. After standing back up, he was surrounded by state troopers.
Before being taken into custody, Moore addressed the situation, declaring himself “duly elected” to represent the people of North Georgia. He accused the police of acting in an “unconstitutional” manner by preventing him from entering the chamber.
Despite his protests, officers handcuffed him and escorted him away.
Moore has been a polarizing figure in Georgia politics, gaining attention for his staunch defense of Trump and sharp criticisms of those prosecuting the former president. His latest actions add to a series of controversial moments that have placed him at odds with members of his own party.
The arrest underscores escalating tensions in Georgia’s political arena, with Moore’s defiance and subsequent detention sparking debate over his conduct and the limits of legislative decorum.