Key Republican legislators confirmed they are considering holding a special session to bring the Republican presidential convention to Nashville and possibly penalize the Metro Nashville Council for rejecting it.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton of Crossville and the General Assembly “fully support” either the Republican National Committee or Democratic National Committee bringing their 2024 convention to Nashville, spokesman Doug Kufner said Friday.
Axios Nashville first reported on the potential for a special session that would consider legislation bypassing the Metro Nashville Council and enabling the legislature to reach a deal with the Convention and Visitors Bureau for a host agreement.
Potential retaliation against the Metro Nashville Council could involve pulling state support for a road along the Cumberland River’s east bank as part of Mayor John Cooper’s redevelopment plan, according to the report.
Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, the Republican Senate speaker from Oak Ridge, indicated Friday a special section could be called.