Pennsylvania Lawmaker Removed for Patriotic Attire
A Republican representative from Pennsylvania claims he was removed from the state House chamber for donning a suit jacket themed with the American flag, coinciding with the country’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations.
Rep. Eric D’Avanzo expressed his embarrassment on Tuesday, stating that House Speaker Joanna McClinton deemed his attire a violation of rules, referring to it somewhat disparagingly as a “costume.”
“Can you believe it? Kicked off the floor for sporting a patriotic jacket!” D’Avanzo shared on Facebook.
Representing the 58th Congressional District in Westmoreland County, he donned a striking red-and-white striped jacket that his wife, Rachel, had gifted him, along with a tie featuring stars.
“I refuse to apologize for prioritizing patriotism over politics,” D’Avanzo asserted. “We love our country. We love America, and we take pride in wearing this.”
Some lawmakers from the opposing party showed support for D’Avanzo’s choice, with Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia County) commenting positively on the colorful jacket. “It’s very patriotic, I see,” he remarked.
“Everyone loved it,” D’Avanzo recalled, noting that many approached him with hugs and congratulations, appreciating his bold fashion choice.
However, not everyone was on board, particularly McClinton, the first Black speaker of the Pennsylvania House.
U.S. Rep. Mike Schlossberg (D-Lehigh County) allegedly presented D’Avanzo with an ultimatum: change the jacket or exit the chamber. Shortly afterward, a security guard reiterated this stance.
“She says it’s a costume… He says, sure, it’s not everyday wear,” D’Avanzo recounted. “But I told them, I’m wearing this at home and again later.” He emphasized the significance of the upcoming holiday weekend, questioning why wearing it should be an issue.
McClinton’s office maintained support for the decision to have D’Avanzo removed, despite the backlash. “House Democrats are focusing on delivering a responsible state budget that serves all Pennsylvanians,” her office stated.
D’Avanzo countered the criticism, arguing that the focus should be on more pressing state issues. “We’re facing an affordability crisis,” he said. “Instead of doing the work the public elected us for, we’re getting sidetracked by trivial matters like this jacket.” He firmly believed his attire represented genuine patriotism, not just a costume.
D’Avanzo, a father of two daughters named Brianna and Brielle, first won his seat in the state House in 2020, defeating his opponent by about 9,000 votes. His subsequent elections in 2022 and 2024 also saw him secure significant victories.
As he prepares for a rematch against Cherry Rogers in November within the 58th Congressional District—home to the former steel town of Monessen—he remains committed to issues like job support and quality education for children.
Throughout his time in office, D’Avanzo has also passed legislation to honor veterans, including dedicating a section of Route 31 to John Beiland, who lost his life in Vietnam in 1967.
The newspaper has reached out to D’Avanzo’s office for further comment.
