Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty shared a disturbing encounter that she had with Republican Rep. Hal Rogers after asking him respectfully to put on a face covering.
On Tuesday, Rep. Beatty of Ohio unleashed a series of tweets detailing how Rogers got physical with her and used profane language after she asked him to wear a mask on the U.S. Capitol’s subway system. The incident took place as Beatty was heading to the House floor for votes.
“He then poked my back, demanding I get on the train. When I asked him not to touch me, he responded, “kiss my ass,” Beatty tweeted.
Several members of the Congressional Black Caucus boycotted on the House steps, slamming Rogers for putting his hands on Beatty. They demanded a public apology, calling his actions “despicable.” After the display, Rogers offered the woman an apology on CNN.
“My words were not acceptable,” he said before adding that he apologized to Beatty on the chamber floor.
Democratic Rep. Brenda Lawrence of Michigan called Rogers actions “harassment” and promised to take action.
