Eight climate change protesters were arrested during the Congressional Baseball game on Wednesday after running onto the field.
The protesters were arrested by the U.S. Capitol Police and charged with federal offenses, including obstructing U.S. Capitol Police officers. Statement from the authorities.
The protest was organised by a self-described “youth-led group” – Climate Defiance – who took responsibility for the incident and had been vocal about their plans in the days leading up to the match.
Members were reportedly protesting before the game even began, and in the bottom of the second inning, at least six protesters wearing shirts reading “No Fossil Fuels” jumped the fence and entered the field.
Capitol Police knew about the incident in advance and had made plans, as the group had made their plans clear.
“We were aware prior to the charity match that some people were planning protests. This was discussed in planning meetings and included in our comprehensive action plan to ensure we had sufficient resources to respond swiftly.” The Capitol Police In a statement about X.
Chants of “USA” by attendees drowned out the voices of the protesters.
Climate groups weren’t the only ones protesting at the game.
The first pitch was preceded by shouts from about a dozen pro-Palestinian protesters, who protested against U.S. support for Israel amid its ongoing war in Gaza with Hamas.
The demonstration began during the flag-raising ceremony and continued through the playing of the national anthem, with loud counter-chants of “USA” erupting from the Republican fans’ section and echoing throughout the stadium.
