Federal disclosures reveal allegations of misconduct against TN House Speaker Cameron Sexton, including election fraud and cover-ups. Defense attorneys demand evidence, linking Sexton to a corruption probe. The case could shake Tennessee politics.
Nashville, TN – March 13, 2025 – New disclosures from the U.S. Department of Justice reveal a growing web of allegations surrounding Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Director of Legislative Affairs Connie Ridley. These allegations, arising in connection with the federal case United States v. Casada, et al., underscore potential personal and professional misconduct and have sparked demands for transparency and accountability.
The Allegations
The Department of Justice, in a letter dated September 24, 2024, disclosed its awareness of several accusations against Speaker Sexton, including:
1. Engaging in extramarital affairs with Megan Lane.
2. Implementing a policy requiring caucus vendors to submit 1099 tax forms, allegedly to facilitate federal criminal charges against former House Speaker Glen Casada and others.
3. Providing false information regarding his residence in Crossville, TN, to enable a fail-safe voting affidavit.
4. Being the subject of allegations filed by the Campaign for Accountability on April 26, 2023, and by Representative Justin Jones on August 28, 2023.
5. Being accused in a federal civil complaint filed by Rep. Jones on October 2, 2023, of making false statements.
6. Misrepresenting restrictions on Director Ridley’s ability to disclose information about a sexual harassment investigation.
While the DOJ stated it lacks sufficient evidence to substantiate these claims, the mere acknowledgment of the allegations has intensified scrutiny on Sexton’s actions.
The Legal Battle for Disclosure
Amid these developments, defense attorneys representing former House Speaker Glen Casada and his associate Cade Cothren have filed motions to compel the government to release all exculpatory and impeachment evidence under the Brady v. Maryland and Giglio v. United States precedents. In their February 20, 2025, letter to federal prosecutors, attorneys Jonathan P. Farmer and Edward M. Yarbrough demanded all documents related to Sexton’s credibility, legal violations, and potential role in initiating the federal investigation.
Their request underscores concern that Sexton, who allegedly maintained communication with FBI agents since assuming the Speaker’s role in 2019, may have played a pivotal role in the corruption probe that led to charges against Casada and Cothren. The defense contends that Sexton and Ridley’s actions should be thoroughly examined in court, particularly given their alleged involvement in campaign finance and mail fraud schemes tied to Phoenix Solutions, a company that facilitated constituent mail services for the General Assembly.
Prosecution’s Response and Ongoing Disputes
In a March 12, 2025, telephone conference, prosecutors reportedly declined to confirm the existence of investigative materials related to Sexton’s residency claims and his broader involvement in the case. Defense attorneys argue that such records are crucial in establishing whether Sexton acted as a key informant while potentially violating election and ethics laws himself.
As the trial for United States v. Casada, et al. progresses, the court is expected to rule on the defense’s motion to compel disclosure of all relevant government records. If granted, this motion could expose further details about Sexton’s alleged misconduct and his potential influence over the prosecution’s case.
Political Fallout and Calls for Accountability
The revelations have sparked renewed calls for accountability within Tennessee’s political landscape. Lawmakers and watchdog groups have urged Speaker Sexton to address the allegations publicly and provide clarity on his reported involvement with federal investigators.
With a high-profile corruption case unfolding and new claims emerging, the political and legal ramifications for Speaker Sexton and Director Ridley remain uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Tennessee politics is once again in the national spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
As more details emerge, TruthWire News will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
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