State Rep. Russell Bedsole (R-Alabaster) recently condemned the antics of his Democratic counterparts, who sided with protesters during a clash with police and security.
1819 News was on the House floor on Friday (May 8, 2026), as members debated a bill that would allow the state to call a special election using court-blocked State Senate maps. Directly above the floor, in the viewing gallery, protestors began making an audible commotion, halting proceedings on the floor.
Following the House’s impromptu adjournment, Democratic lawmakers went upstairs to the gallery, where people were chanting and signing.
Video captured by 1819 News showed Dee Reed, of Black Voters Matter, being handled by law enforcement and state house security, who were attempting to remove her.
Soon after, State Reps. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham) and Mary Moore (D-Birmingham) began trying to reach Reed as she fell to the floor, limp.
Givan can be seen in the video pushing and wrestling with both law enforcement and security while shouting demands.
The kerfuffle did not lead to any arrests, and the House continued its business nearly an hour later.
Bedsole, a current law enforcement officer with the Shelby County Sheriff’s office, released a statement on Sunday, condemning the protesters’ antics and his Democratic colleagues’ behavior, especially those who are being physical with police.
“[T]he people of Alabama witnessed conduct that should concern every citizen regardless of political affiliation,” Bedsole wrote. “The halls of government are designed to be places where passionate debate can occur, where elected officials can advocate strongly for their constituents, and where citizens can make their voices heard. Protest and disagreement are not only protected rights in our nation – they are an important part of the democratic process. However, there is a clear difference between peaceful expression and behavior intended to disrupt and derail the lawful operations of government.”
He continued, “What is even more troubling is that some elected lawmakers chose to interfere with law enforcement officers while those officers were carrying out their lawful duties. At no point should anyone – including elected officials — place their hands on a law enforcement officer who is simply doing the job they have been sworn to perform. Respect for the rule of law cannot be conditional based on political preference or emotional disagreement.”
Bedsole continued by lauding the police profession and its purposes, highlighting their vital role in protecting the Democratic process.
“Alabama deserves spirited debate, respectful disagreement, and leaders who understand that accountability and decorum are not weaknesses, but necessities for a functioning republic,” Bedsole concluded.
Bedsole (R) represents House District 49.
Reported by 1819 News, Craig Monger
