A video surfaced on Friday night of Oregon Republican MP Mike Nearman pushing a door as he left the state capitol, allowing protesters to enter the building while a legislative session was underway.
In the security footage obtained by The Oregonian / OregonLive, the representative walks out of two doors, briefly pushing through one, allowing a demonstrator to enter the premises. A stream of protesters is seen entering the building before the State Police force them out, resulting in a fight.
At the time of the breach, a special coronavirus session was underway within the Capitol. Those who entered the building illegally, some carrying rifles, protested the state’s COVID-19 restrictions at the time, the Oregon outlet said.
Some of the protesters acted violently during the rape, reportedly targeting journalists. One also sprayed a police officer with something, as seen in the footage.
The Oregonian reports that at least two people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
The Hill contacted Nearman’s office for comment.
Updated: 22h54