A House Homeland Security Committee hearing featuring Governor Kristi Noem was dramatically interrupted Thursday by a pair of protesters who erupted in fervent outbursts.
The first protester, dressed in clerical attire and clutching a cross, unleashed a piercing cry: “Stop ICE raids! The power of Christ compels you!” His voice echoed through the chamber, immediately disrupting the proceedings.
Before security could fully react, a second individual joined the disruption, shouting demands to “End deportations!” with similar religious fervor, escalating the chaos within the hearing room.
Chairman Andrew Garbarino swiftly intervened, his voice booming with authority. He declared that disrupting Congressional business was a federal crime, warning audience members to regain composure or face the consequences.
Garbarino authorized Capitol Police to remove and arrest those responsible for the disturbance, initiating a swift response to restore order. Officers moved to detain the protesters as their shouts continued.
Video captured from inside the hearing room showed police physically escorting the protesters from the chamber, their resistance met with firm control. The scene unfolded quickly and decisively.
Prior to the hearing’s commencement, a substantial group of anti-ICE demonstrators had gathered outside the room, signaling a planned protest. Their presence foreshadowed the disruptions that would soon follow.
The atmosphere was charged even before Governor Noem began her statement, with a visible tension hanging over the proceedings. The protesters’ actions brought that tension to a head.
The hearing resumed after the protesters were removed, but the incident left a palpable sense of disruption and underscored the passionate opposition to current immigration policies.
