Pennsylvania State Rep. Eric Davanzo, a Republican, stated he was removed from the State House floor on Tuesday for wearing a suit jacket adorned with the American flag. Davanzo, who represents the 58th district, said House Speaker Joanna McClinton deemed his attire a violation of House rules, describing it as a "costume."
Davanzo expressed his bewilderment at the ruling on his Facebook page, posting, "Kicked off the floor for wearing a Patriotic jacket? That’s right, it happened!"
He explained that the jacket, purchased by his wife, featured red and white stripes and a star-themed tie. Davanzo asserted, "I will never apologize for putting patriotism before politics. We love our country. We love America, so I’m happy to put this on. I’m proud to wear this."
According to Davanzo, even some lawmakers from the opposing party acknowledged his suit. Rep. Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia County) reportedly commented on the jacket's patriotic nature. Davanzo claimed that members of the public and other lawmakers reacted positively, with some offering hugs and congratulations.
However, Speaker McClinton's office defended the decision, stating, "The House Democrats came to Harrisburg this week to do the serious work of passing a responsible budget to benefit all Pennsylvanians."
Davanzo countered by criticizing the focus on his attire amidst ongoing budget negotiations, noting that the state budget had failed to pass on time for the fifth consecutive year. He told WHP, "Instead of coming out here and doing the people’s work, no, what are we focused on? We’re focused on bulls–t issues like this jacket, right? No reason whatsoever. This wasn’t a costume. This is something that I truly believe in. I’m a patriot."
Davanzo was first elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2020. He is scheduled to face Cherri Rogers again in November for the 58th District seat. During his tenure, he has supported legislation related to jobs, infrastructure, and education. He was the sponsor of Act 7 of 2022, which dedicated a portion of State Route 31 to John Beyrand, a Vietnam War casualty.