A Democratic Pennsylvania lawmaker allegedly used his political position to threaten to shut down a local bar after he yelled profanities at its employees before being kicked out of the bar.
Congressman Kevin Boyle, 44, began the riot at the Gaul & Co. Malt House in Rockledge, Pennsylvania, after he yelled at a female bartender and refused several orders to leave. According to the viral video.
“By the way, you can end this bar if you want,” exclaimed Boyle.
“By the way, you’re all assholes,” Boyle declares as he stands up and grabs his jacket, while one of the people off camera urges him to go to his car before calling the police.
As Boyle continued to get into a shouting match with the bartender, someone told the politician that he was the one who started the argument.
“Why do you behave like that?” the Democrat asked before changing the subject and accusing everyone inside the bar of collaborating with the federal government.
“This is U.S. military intelligence, and it’s a traitor,” Boyle began, then paused.
Boyle, whose brother Brendan is a member of the Pennsylvania state legislature, went on a blistering attack on the workers, calling them “idiots” and accusing them of “actors.”
Power-hungry lawmakers then claimed they had the ability to block promotions for some employees.
“Stop it, you’re not thinking.” [sic] Are you trying to block your promotion to the U.S. military? ”
Mr. Boyle then pointed around the room to make sure everyone was part of the military, and there were zero “yes” answers.
In a moment of clarity, Boyle made sure to pay his bill as he defied the bartender’s demands to leave.
“Did you pay your bills?” he asked, before admitting, “I don’t want to be an idiot, but I don’t want to be an incompetent.”
While being asked to leave the bar again, Boyle began saying, “I’m in trouble.” “This is so offensive. You can’t talk to me like this. I’m closing the bar!”
“This bar is over. Do you know who I am?” “This bar is over tomorrow.”
The bar, located in Montgomery County, is part of the 172nd District, which Boyle has held since taking office in 2011, along with parts of Philadelphia.
Pennsylvania House Democratic leaders said they were aware of the “troublesome” video and were “pleased” that Boyle had asked for help with a “personal challenge.”
“We are aware of the video circulating on social media. It is deeply troubling. Congressman Boyle has been open about personal challenges,” the statement read. Obtained by NBC10 Reid. “We are heartened that our colleagues and dear friends are seeking help. Our commitment to providing mental health services extends far beyond the steps of the Capitol.”
“One of the main reasons we advocate so strongly for access to mental health is the reality that hardship can and does happen to everyone, and that seeking treatment should be encouraged, not stigmatized. That is what should be done.”
In 2021, Boyle was arrested and charged with harassment and violating a protection from abuse order filed by his wife. According to the outlet.
Following his arrest, Boyle was removed from his position as chairman of the House Finance Committee and his access to the Capitol was restricted.
