Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden Claims Assault by Protester at RNC

Republican Representative Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin reported being assaulted by a member of the anti-war group CODEPINK while waiting to enter the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. In a statement, Van Orden described the incident as an act of political violence, asserting that a nearby police officer witnessed the altercation and subsequently arrested the protester. He emphasized his intolerance for such violence, referencing the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump and calling for accountability for those who engage in political aggression. In contrast, CODEPINK denied Van Orden's account, claiming that their Palestine campaign organizer was wrongfully arrested after he allegedly shoved past her in line. Medea Benjamin, co-founder of CODEPINK, stated that the incident involved a "visibly Palestinian woman" who was intentionally bumped into by Van Orden. She criticized the congressman’s actions and raised concerns about potential racial profiling, noting that two other CODEPINK staff members were allowed to pass without incident. The organization expressed that their presence at the RNC was to advocate for peace and disarmament through non-violent protest methods. Benjamin characterized the incident as reflective of broader issues of misogyny and discrimination, particularly highlighting that the only Palestinian in line faced aggression and arrest. As of the latest updates, no charges have been filed against either party involved in the incident, leaving the situation unresolved amid ongoing tensions surrounding political protests.