Pennsylvania state Representative Eric Davanzo was removed from the House floor Tuesday after Democratic Speaker Joanna McClinton objected to his American flag themed suit jacket, sparking outrage just days before Independence Day.

The Republican lawmaker from Westmoreland County said he wore the red, white, and blue blazer to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July and the nation's 250th anniversary. McClinton ordered him to either remove the jacket or leave the chamber, citing House rules against "costumes" on the floor.

Not a Costume

Davanzo refused to remove the patriotic attire. "This isn't a costume," he told reporters afterward. "I thought I was adding some levity to the proceedings, walking onto the House floor with an American flag suit jacket."

The Speaker's office defended the decision in a statement. "You can hold a press conference," a spokesperson said. "But on the floor of the House, we have a quorum for all members, no matter the holiday."

McClinton argued the dress code applies equally to all lawmakers regardless of the occasion. But critics quickly pointed out an apparent double standard in enforcement.

Pride Month Gets Different Treatment

Republican critics noted that Democratic lawmakers wore progressive and pride themed shirts and accessories throughout June without facing any consequences. The contrast between tolerating rainbow attire for an entire month while ejecting a lawmaker for an American flag jacket drew accusations of political targeting.

"The hypocrisy is unbelievable," one House Republican told reporters. Social media users compared McClinton to "Scrooge" for her decision to boot patriotic attire so close to Independence Day.

Democratic Colleagues Disagree

Not all Democrats supported the Speaker's decision. Davanzo said several Democratic lawmakers approached him afterward in the Capitol and told him they did not agree with his ejection.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the closely divided Pennsylvania House, where Democrats hold a slim majority. Procedural battles and partisan clashes have become increasingly common as both parties jockey for advantage ahead of the 2026 elections.

America 250 Celebration

Davanzo framed his outfit as honoring the America 250 celebration, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Events across Pennsylvania and the nation are marking the milestone leading up to July 4, 2026.

The lawmaker said he will continue wearing patriotic attire despite the rebuke. He suggested the controversy only proves his point about celebrating American heritage unapologetically.

For now, the dust-up remains one of the more unusual floor incidents in recent Harrisburg history. Whether the Speaker applies the same standards to other themed attire in future months remains to be seen.