Georgia State Senator Colton Moore Arrested After Attempt to Enter House Chamber
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – In a dramatic turn of events at the Georgia State Capitol on Thursday, State Senator Colton Moore, a controversial figure in Georgia politics, was arrested after attempting to enter the House chamber despite being banned. The incident, which involved a brief scuffle with security personnel, has drawn sharp reactions from across the political spectrum.
The arrest occurred as Governor Brian Kemp prepared to deliver his annual State of the State Address. Senator Colton Moore, a Republican from Trenton known for his far-right views, was barred from entering the chamber last year after harshly criticizing the late House Speaker David Ralston during a tribute session.
A History of Controversy
The ban on Colton Moore was imposed by current House Speaker Jon Burns after Moore referred to Ralston as “one of the most corrupt Georgia leaders we’ll ever see” in a speech that coincided with a memorial attended by Ralston’s family. Burns, also a Republican, called Moore’s comments “vile” and stated the ban would remain until an apology was issued — something Moore has refused to do.
On Thursday, Moore attempted to defy the ban, citing what he called a “constitutional obligation” to attend the governor’s address. Video footage showed Georgia State Senator Colton Moore trying to push past House staffers and Georgia State Patrol officers, leading to a heated confrontation.
Arrest and Charges
In the ensuing standoff, Moore was pushed to the ground by a member of the House staff and subsequently arrested by state troopers. He was charged with “willful obstruction of law enforcement officers,” a misdemeanor, and taken to Fulton County Jail. Jail records indicate that Moore was required to post a $1,000 bond for release.
“Georgia is being ruled by authoritarians,” Moore said while being escorted to a police vehicle. He later described the ban as an act of “censorship” against his voice as an elected official.
Supporters and Critics Respond
Moore’s arrest has sparked intense debate. Georgia Republican Chairman Josh McKoon expressed disappointment, stating, “It was not only legally appropriate to admit him to today’s proceedings — it was simply the right thing to do.” McKoon urged lawmakers to focus on Governor Kemp’s agenda rather than internal conflicts.
Opponents, however, have criticized GA Senator Colton Moore for what they see as his pattern of divisive and inflammatory behavior. In addition to his remarks about Ralston, Moore previously called for the impeachment of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over her indictment of former President Donald Trump.
Political Implications
The arrest highlights growing tensions within Georgia’s Republican Party, with moderates and far-right members clashing over policy and decorum. Moore’s outspoken support for Trump and his criticism of party leadership have made him a polarizing figure in state politics.
House Speaker Jon Burns has yet to comment publicly on the arrest, but sources within the Capitol suggest the ban on Georgia State Senator Colton Moore is unlikely to be lifted anytime soon.
Despite the controversy, Moore’s arrest underscores broader issues of political polarization and procedural disputes in state legislatures. For now, the focus remains on the fallout from this high-profile incident and its potential impact on Georgia’s political landscape.
As Moore’s supporters work to secure his release, questions linger about whether his defiance will bolster his standing among his base or further isolate him within Georgia’s legislative body.
