By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
MONTGOMERY—Drama, drama, and more drama at the State Capitol. The Alabama House Republican Caucus has voted to remove one of its members following allegations that he attempted to record a private meeting, according to statehouse leadership.
State Rep. Arnold Mooney, a Republican from the Birmingham area, is no longer a member of the caucus after the decision was finalized Friday.
The move comes after reports earlier in the week that Mooney was discovered attempting to record a closed-door caucus meeting held on Wednesday. The meeting, which was not open to the public, was intended for internal discussions among Republican lawmakers.
Caucus leaders say such meetings are meant to allow members to speak candidly about legislation and strategy without concern that discussions will be made public.
House Majority Leader Paul Lee, R-Dothan, confirmed the removal in a statement, emphasizing the importance of privacy during internal deliberations.
“Caucus meetings are intended to serve as a forum for Republican members to work through issues privately,” Lee said. “These are family discussions, and the caucus policy is to not discuss what happens during these internal meetings.”
Lee added that Mooney’s removal followed a decision by caucus members.
Mooney has denied allegations that he attempted to record the meeting, according to reports.
The incident reportedly took place during a discussion involving legislation connected to the Alabama Public Service Commission. Sources familiar with the meeting indicated that recording such proceedings would violate longstanding caucus rules designed to protect confidential conversations.
The situation also comes amid heightened tensions within the caucus following a previous leak of internal audio, which raised concerns among lawmakers about trust and confidentiality.
Despite his removal from the caucus, Mooney will continue serving in the Alabama House of Representatives and is currently seeking reelection to his Shelby County seat. He is unopposed in the Republican primary.
It remains unclear whether any additional disciplinary actions will be taken.
