Oregon lawmaker protests book ban bill with explicit reading

A Republican lawmaker in Oregon caused a stir in the House by reading an explicit passage from a young adult novel. Representative Dwayne Yunker, from Grants Pass, used this act to protest a Democratic bill aimed at preventing schools from banning books based on their themes. The bill, which was not being voted on that day, is designed to protect access to diverse literature in schools. Yunker read from "The Haters" by Jesse Andrews, which has received criticism for its adult themes. He began by noting the House rules against using indecent language but questioned why such language was acceptable in books available to students. His reading included a detailed consensual sex scene, leading to objections from his fellow Republican, Representative Kevin Mannix, who described Yunker’s comments as “lascivious and obscene.” Despite the objections, Yunker continued with his remarks until Mannix intervened again. He also highlighted serious issues, like sexual abuse cases within Oregon schools, arguing that allowing explicit materials in libraries could normalize inappropriate behavior. House Republican Leader Christine Drazan supported Yunker, calling the situation indecent and inappropriate for the House floor. In contrast, House Speaker Julie Fahey criticized the tactics used by the Republicans, likening them to political theatrics seen at a national level. She expressed disappointment over what she perceives as a decline in decorum in Oregon's legislative chamber.