Protest Outside Democratic Headquarters Turns Violent

On Wednesday night, a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the Democratic National Committee (DNC) headquarters involving about 150 people turned violent.

Key Details: Dozens of Democratic representatives and candidates, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, were inside the building at a reception when they heard chanting outside. Protesters tried to block entrances and exits to force the Democrats to encounter their candlelight vigil calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas war.  A number of the protesters wore black shirts that read "Cease Fire Now". Six U.S. Capitol police officers were injured during the clash, and one protester was arrested.

Key Quote: "Right now our officers are working to keep back approximately 150 people who are illegally and violently protesting in the area of Canal Street and Ivy Street, SE. Officers are making arrests. All Members have been evacuated from the area. Please stay away from the area," U.S. Capitol Police said on X.

For Context: The clashes outside the DNC were the latest example of increasing tensions over the war between Israel and Hamas. President Joe Biden has resisted calls for a cease-fire but has encouraged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a three-day fighting pause. Over the last week, Israel has implemented four-hour daily humanitarian pauses in parts of northern Gaza.

How the Media Covered it: Sources on the right and left noted that about seven lawmakers, including Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), were huddled in the basement of the DNC before being evacuated into police SUVs.