Amid the ongoing government shutdown, tensions flared outside Speaker Mike Johnson’s Capitol office on Tuesday evening. A video clip captured a tense exchange between California Rep. Nanette Barragán and a Capitol Police officer, who was stationed at the entrance of the office suite. Barragán, who was part of a group of Democrats protesting to have Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva seated, brushed past the officer, entering the reception area.
Union chair Gus Papathanasiou issued a statement condemning Barragán’s actions as “unacceptable,” calling for an apology and praising the officer for maintaining composure. He emphasized the challenges faced by officers during the shutdown, noting that they have missed their first full paycheck and warned of severe financial consequences if the situation persists. In contrast, Barragán asserted that she was the one in need of an apology, claiming the officer had “forcibly grabbed” her on her back as she and other Democrats attempted to speak to Johnson.
Barrag, who was unaccompanied by Johnson at the time, expressed appreciation for the officer’s gesture and acknowledged the difficulties faced by Capitol Police officers, who are working without pay. She called for improved training for the force to ensure they do not hinder Members from fulfilling their constitutional duties. Republicans have harshly criticized the incident, with Johnson labeling the protest as evidence of Democratic desperation. Department spokespeople, who are on furlough due to the shutdown, have not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
Despite the political tensions, the core issue remains the unpaid furlough of Capitol Police officers, a consequence of the ongoing government shutdown. The incident has further escalated the divide, with Democrats pushing for the seating of Grijalva and Republicans maintaining their stance against the process.