West Virginia Senator Who Interrupted Session Removed

March 10, 2023

News Release | AP

Senator Robert Karnes

West Virginia State Senator Robert Karnes (R - Randolph, 11th District) appears at an Upshur County Commission meeting on December 15th, 2022. / Mountaineer News File Photo

CHARLESTON, WV - The West Virginia Senate on Friday removed a lawmaker who had interrupted the chamber president’s explanation of legislation.

Republican President Craig Blair ordered the sergeant at arms to remove Randolph County GOP Sen. Robert Karnes.

Blair was explaining a bill when Karnes demanded that it be read a third time. Blair told Karnes that his question did not pertain to the bill in question and that he was out of order.

After more outbursts on other legislation from Karnes, who repeatedly said, “Mr. President, I demand that the bill be read,” several senators went to the podium to meet with Blair.

The Senate then went into a brief recess. Upon returning, a motion was made to remove Karnes and Blair concurred. Karnes then got up and quietly exited the chamber.

WV Legislative Photos from March 10, 2023:

In these photos provided by West Virginia Legislative Services, state Sen. Robert Karnes addresses Senate President Craig Blair Friday, March 10, 2023, in the Senate chambers in Charleston, W.Va. Karnes was ordered removed from the chamber for interrupting Blair's explanation of legislation. (Will Price/West Virginia Legislative Services via AP)