Georgia State Senator Arrested After Attempting to Enter House Chamber During Ban; GSP Issues Statement

On January 16, 2025, Georgia State Senator Colton Moore was arrested at the State Capitol after attempting to enter the House floor in defiance of a ban imposed in March 2024. The incident, which occurred shortly before Governor Brian Kemp’s State of the State address, resulted in a scuffle with law enforcement and Moore being led away in handcuffs.

The ban was originally enacted after Moore criticized late Speaker David Ralston during a Senate session on March 14, 2024, following tributes by Governor Kemp and former Governor Nathan Deal. Moore accused Ralston of corruption, prompting an apology from Senate President Pro Tempore John Kennedy to Ralston’s family. Moore’s comments were based on allegations that Ralston had used his office for personal financial gain.

On January 15, 2025, Moore announced on social media his intent to ignore the ban, citing his constitutional duty to attend joint legislative sessions. The following day, he attempted to enter the House chamber but was blocked by staff and law enforcement. Video footage, now viral, shows Moore being knocked to the ground by Keith Williams, a lawyer for the Speaker’s office, during the confrontation.

The Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) released a detailed statement regarding the arrest, describing the sequence of events and the actions taken by law enforcement. According to DPS, Moore created a public disturbance outside the House chamber when he attempted to enter the room despite the ban. Troopers stationed at the Capitol reportedly issued multiple verbal warnings and made several attempts to de-escalate the situation. Despite these warnings, Moore persisted and made physical contact with troopers as he attempted to push past them into the chamber.

The statement emphasized the measures taken by troopers to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone involved. It noted that Moore’s actions escalated the situation, forcing law enforcement to intervene. After being subdued, Moore was arrested without further incident and transported to Fulton County Jail, where he was charged with misdemeanor obstruction.

DPS added that the information released is preliminary and could change as the investigation continues or new details emerge.

Speaker Jon Burns, who initially stood by the ban, lifted it on Friday, January 17, allowing Moore to return to the House chamber.