In response to a press release from the Hendrix Campaign, Representative Terri Lynn Weaver gave the following statement to Smith County Insider.
“I believe in the due process of law, and the rule that applies – innocent until proven guilty – and I had no confidence in the process, and I believe we opened up a Pandora’s box going forward for any member down there,” Weaver also told Smith County Insider. “It came down to this: there was no due process for me and I believe you’re innocent till proven guilty. I believe I work through the lens of our Constitution and if we’re going to start convicting someone on rumors and allegations, and you never get to see your accuser, never get to have a statement made under oath, that’s a slippery slope. That’s what we were dealing with.
Weaver also stated, “In order to protect everyone, even bad actors, due process must be a priority. No complaints were ever filed against Rep. Durham. After this episode, any member can be expelled on rumors or hearsay without facing ones accusers.”
“Unless I’m fully convinced that it was fair on both sides, my only option is to vote no.”
Terri Lynn Weaver
Weaver also commented on a number of legislators who voted present, rather than cast a vote either way. More than 20 members of the House either voted present or were not in the chamber at all.
“When I go to vote for the 40th District… when I’m present, I vote yes or no,” Weaver said.
Weaver also pointed out that Durham has already been defeated in August’s primary and would not be back in January for a new session anyway.
