Activists Arrested After Storming Speaker McCarthy’s Office
Published 4 days ago on September 12, 2023
By Christian Ramirez
Speaker McCarthyPhoto Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (CC0 Public Domain)
Clear Facts:
> Activists demanding the reauthorization of PEPFAR, a vital HIV/AIDS relief program, stormed House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s office; seven were arrested. > PEPFAR, credited with saving 25 million lives globally, is currently mired in political disputes over its potential ties to abortion services. > Amidst this tension, Speaker McCarthy juggles multiple political challenges, including government funding and conservative calls for accountability on President Biden.
In an audacious move, activists stormed the office of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Capitol Hill this Monday. Their demand? The reauthorization of PEPFAR, the crucial HIV/AIDS relief initiative which has saved numerous lives globally.
As they took over McCarthy’s office, they fervently chanted, “McCarthy – pass PEPFAR now!” illustrating their intent and urgency.
Seven protestors, some of whom were wearing “HIV-positive” shirts and brandishing banners advocating to “end AIDS,” were escorted out and handcuffed by the U.S. Capitol Police.