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‘People are disgusted’: Tennessee Dems speak before GOP nominates new House Speaker

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee Democrats held a press conference Wednesday morning before House Republicans are set to nominate a new House Speaker.

During a meeting at the state Capitol, the House Republican Caucus will pick from several candidates to replace Glen Casada.

Rep. Mike Stewart (D – Nashville) called the process a “sham” and said “it’s nothing but a cover-up effort.”

“It’s completely ridiculous and the people should be appalled by it,” Stewart continued.

An exclusive NewsChannel 5 investigation first revealed evidence of political side deals, even a potential bribe offer, to pass the governor's school vouchers bill.

"None of these scandals have been seriously investigated. How can the Republicans seriously look the people in the eye and say they can have a real leadership election before any of these scandals are resolved," Stewart continued.

RELATED: Voucher vote: Tax money offered as bait, possible bribery

Casada has consistently denied doing anything improper in trying to push the vouchers bill across the finish line. He’s scheduled to resign as speaker Aug. 2.

Capitol Hill investigations