Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee is noticeably absent during a critical special session on public safety, leaving lawmakers from both parties wondering where he is. The impasse between the House and Senate threatens the outcome of the session, which was called in response to the Covenant School shooting in Nashville. Lawmakers have expressed frustration with the governor’s lack of involvement in resolving the deadlock.
According to Sen. Paul Bailey, a Republican from Sparta, Lee has not been as involved as he should have been. While Republicans in the House are diligently working through a list of bills that require Senate approval, the Senate has only passed three bills and adjourned until Monday, with no plans to pass any more. Lawmakers say they have been left to navigate the session on their own, questioning the governor’s whereabouts and involvement.
Even Rep. Bo Mitchell, a Democrat from Nashville, joked about Lee’s absence, stating that he is missing. Sen. Heidi Campbell, also a Democrat from Nashville, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the governor’s lack of leadership in the situation. Sen. Mark Pody, a Republican from Lebanon, admitted that he couldn’t provide any information about Lee’s whereabouts or thoughts on the matter.
The frustration extends beyond lawmakers, with even the chaplain from Covenant School posting a Silver Alert for Lee on social media, suggesting that he has been missing since before the special session he called. Critics argue that it is disconcerting to see lawmakers investing their time and effort in preparing legislation for a session that the governor initiated, only for him to be absent.
Lee’s only public appearance during the week was at the state fair where he spoke to the Future Farmers of America. However, he made no mention of the special session, which left Mitchell perplexed. Mitchell pointed out that as the governor who called lawmakers into town, Lee had the perfect opportunity to address the audience and influence their views but chose not to.
Prior to the special session, Lee was expected to be the guest of honor at a political fundraiser but left upon spotting cameras. A spokesperson for the governor claimed that he suddenly realized he had other obligations. However, this lack of visibility and involvement from the governor has raised concerns as negotiations between the Senate and House break down.
Lawmakers, including Republicans, express their desire for Lee to have been more involved, believing it would have been beneficial for the entire legislature. The governor’s press secretary denies the accusations of being missing in action, stating that Lee has been present at the Capitol every day during the special session.
As the special session on public safety in Tennessee continues, it remains unclear why Gov. Bill Lee has chosen to remain mostly absent from the process. Lawmakers from both sides express their disappointment and frustration at his lack of leadership. While the session faces an impasse, it remains to be seen whether Lee will step in and provide the direction that lawmakers are seeking.
