Pennsylvania Lawmaker Removed for Patriotic Attire
A Republican representative found himself ordered to leave the Pennsylvania House chamber after his patriotic outfit drew disapproval from Democratic leaders, who referred to it as a “costume.”
State Representative Eric D’Avanzo (R-Pennsylvania) celebrated the upcoming Independence Day by wearing a striking red-and-white striped jacket accompanied by a blue stars-and-stripes tie in Congress. This was meant to mark America’s 250th anniversary.
However, House Speaker Joanna McClinton (D-Pennsylvania) contended that D’Avanzo’s clothing breach the House Dress Code, which specifies “appropriate business attire.” She instructed him to either remove the jacket or vacate the floor.
“We don’t allow costumes on the floor of the House on holidays,” McClinton stated, emphasizing that their display of patriotism is reflected in the two large American flags positioned at the back of the House.
McClinton further clarified that while the jacket is perfectly fine for his office, committee meetings, and press events, it isn’t appropriate for the House floor, irrespective of any holidays.
“This is not a costume,” D’Avanzo responded. “I’ll wear this when I get home… I’ll wear this again next week. I love my country.”
“This is just me showing off my patriotism,” he continued, noting that if he had worn an LGBT scarf, it wouldn’t have been an issue. “So if we’re going to maintain this standard, let’s maintain it.”
McClinton defended her actions by insisting that D’Avanzo was not uniquely targeted for his patriotism. She mentioned that other lawmakers have also been asked to remove inappropriate items, such as oversized hats.
“Yes, I got kicked off the floor for wearing a patriotic jacket,” D’Avanzo remarked. In a video, he expressed pride in wearing the jacket and assured he would never apologize for prioritizing “patriotism over politics.”
Later, D’Avanzo noted that while his conservative peers supported his expression, House Democrats should address serious issues like the state’s economic challenges rather than “trivial matters like this jacket.”
“This is not a costume. This is something I truly believe in. I am a patriot,” he asserted.
BREAKING: Pennsylvania Rep. Eric D’Avanzo (R) says he was removed from the House floor for wearing a patriotic jacket ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
