During a session of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on May 13, 2026, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (AIADMK general secretary) raised concerns about the integrity of the party amidst a split in its ranks. He alleged that some AIADMK MLAs had been promised ministerial positions and roles in various boards by the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in exchange for their support. This claim comes as 25 rebel MLAs, led by S.P. Velumani, sided with the government during a confidence vote, while the remaining 22 MLAs, loyal to Palaniswami, opposed it. Palaniswami stressed that all 47 AIADMK MLAs were elected under the party's 'Two Leaves' symbol, and he warned against the potential for 'horse trading' in politics. He urged the Chief Minister to uphold promises of clean governance. The session saw tension when Velumani was permitted to speak despite objections from Palaniswami's supporters, who questioned the fairness of allowing a rebel leader to address the Assembly. Velumani reiterated the rebel faction's support for the government and called for the continuation of welfare measures from the previous administration led by J. Jayalalithaa.