West Virginia senator who interrupted session removed

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.

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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.