NASHVILLE – Tennessee House Republican Caucus Chairman Cameron Sexton has become GOP lawmakers’ nominee to replace departing Speaker Glen Casada, who plans to resign next week amid a swirl of controversy and scandal.
After a four-round battle Wednesday, the 48-year-old Sexton, of Crossville, defeated former Speaker Pro Tem Curtis Johnson, of Clarksville, garnering 41 votes from members of the GOP supermajority.
Sexton’s victory came after state Rep. Mike Carter, of Ooltewah, dropped out after a fourth-place tie with Rep. Ryan Williams, of Cookeville, in the second round of voting; Williams also dropped out.
Given Republicans’ 73-member supermajority in the 99-representative chamber, Sexton is virtually guaranteed to become speaker on Aug. 23 when they return to vote in a special legislative session called by Republican Gov. Bill Lee.
District 29 State Rep. Mike Carter, right, shakes hands with Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee during a Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon in March.It’s the chamber’s most powerful position, with the speaker presiding over the House as well as calling the shots on naming chairpersons, vice-chairpersons and members of committees as well as administering operations.