President Biden, on Thursday, spoke to the Democratic National Committee meeting to convey his gratitude to the staffers following a riot and confrontation with the police by pro-Palestinian protesters outside the party’s headquarters in Washington.
The White House stated that Mr. Biden and first lady Jill Biden expressed their appreciation for law enforcement who ensured the safety of everyone inside the DNC, including staff and Members of Congress.
In a statement, the White House confirmed that the president and first lady also thanked the staffers for their hard work, extended Thanksgiving wishes, and encouraged them to take care of each other.
One individual was arrested for assaulting an officer Wednesday night outside the DNC headquarters, just three blocks south of the Capitol complex. However, videos of the riot circulated on social media showed several demonstrators being taken away by the police.
Protesters advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza assembled outside the building, and the situation escalated into chaos as clashes with Capitol Police ensued.
President Biden has consistently supported Israel, asserting its right to defend itself in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack. He has even defended Israel’s controversial raid on a hospital in Gaza, condemning Hamas for using it to conceal hostages and weapons, which he referred to as a “war crime.”
According to the police, six officers sustained injuries, including minor cuts, being pepper-sprayed, and punched.
Members of Congress were present inside the building, receiving information from the party’s candidates, when they were evacuated by Capitol Police, according to Rep. Brad Sherman, a California Democrat, on Twitter.
Approximately seven members of Congress were inside the building at the time they were evacuated.
Biden Urges DNC to Show Compassion After Pro-Palestinian Riot at Party Headquarters
