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VIDEO Exclusive: NC State Rep. Deb Butler: "I Will Not Yield" | The Last Word | MSNBC
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Exclusive: NC State Rep. Deb Butler: "I Will Not Yield" | The Last Word | MSNBC
In a powerful display of defiance, North Carolina Democratic State Representative Deb Butler made headlines after her passionate response to a surprise vote orchestrated by House Republicans to override the governor's budget veto. This incident occurred during a session that shocked both lawmakers and the public alike, demonstrating the contentious atmosphere in North Carolina politics.
During the session, which took place on September 11, 2019, Butler confronted Republican Speaker Tim Moore after he called an unexpected vote to override Governor Roy Cooper's veto. Butler, voicing her frustration, stated, “You are making a mockery of this process... your leadership is an embarrassment.” The Democrats had been informed there would be no vote that day, allowing Republicans to maneuver the vote with only a fraction of the House present, ultimately passing the override 55-9.
Despite attempts to silence her, Butler did not back down. As she was cut off, she switched microphones and continued to voice her objections, insisting, “I will not yield!” Her colleagues surrounded her to offer support, emphasizing the unity of the Democratic Party in their fight against what they saw as a deceptive tactic.
Butler highlighted critical issues facing North Carolina, including the underfunding of public education and environmental quality. She expressed her determination to advocate for the working poor and criticized the actions of the Republican majority as indicative of a broader lack of respect for democracy.
The session quickly turned into a media spectacle, especially when noted that Republican leaders had informed media outlets not to anticipate any voting, resulting in a lack of coverage until Butler's colleague recorded the moment on a cell phone. The public response has since rallied behind Butler’s bravery, with significant support pouring in from across the state and beyond.
In reflecting on the incident, Butler remarked on the extreme measures required to protect democracy and the enduring challenges North Carolina faces politically. Her passionate stand serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles within state legislatures, where political maneuvering often clashes with democratic principles.
As we review this event, what are your thoughts on the role of state representatives in safeguarding democracy? Have you witnessed similar clashes in your local governance? Share your experiences and insights below!
In a powerful display of defiance, North Carolina Democratic State Representative Deb Butler made headlines after her passionate response to a surprise vote orchestrated by House Republicans to override the governor's budget veto. This incident occurred during a session that shocked both lawmakers and the public alike, demonstrating the contentious atmosphere in North Carolina politics.
During the session, which took place on September 11, 2019, Butler confronted Republican Speaker Tim Moore after he called an unexpected vote to override Governor Roy Cooper's veto. Butler, voicing her frustration, stated, “You are making a mockery of this process... your leadership is an embarrassment.” The Democrats had been informed there would be no vote that day, allowing Republicans to maneuver the vote with only a fraction of the House present, ultimately passing the override 55-9.
Despite attempts to silence her, Butler did not back down. As she was cut off, she switched microphones and continued to voice her objections, insisting, “I will not yield!” Her colleagues surrounded her to offer support, emphasizing the unity of the Democratic Party in their fight against what they saw as a deceptive tactic.
Butler highlighted critical issues facing North Carolina, including the underfunding of public education and environmental quality. She expressed her determination to advocate for the working poor and criticized the actions of the Republican majority as indicative of a broader lack of respect for democracy.
The session quickly turned into a media spectacle, especially when noted that Republican leaders had informed media outlets not to anticipate any voting, resulting in a lack of coverage until Butler's colleague recorded the moment on a cell phone. The public response has since rallied behind Butler’s bravery, with significant support pouring in from across the state and beyond.
In reflecting on the incident, Butler remarked on the extreme measures required to protect democracy and the enduring challenges North Carolina faces politically. Her passionate stand serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles within state legislatures, where political maneuvering often clashes with democratic principles.
As we review this event, what are your thoughts on the role of state representatives in safeguarding democracy? Have you witnessed similar clashes in your local governance? Share your experiences and insights below!