WASHINGTON, D.C. — A tense moment inside a U.S. Senate hearing exploded Wednesday afternoon after a North Carolina man — identified as Raleigh firefighter Brian McGinnis — was arrested while protesting the growing conflict involving Iran.
Three Swain County Educators Arrested After Allegedly Assaulting Disabled Elementary School Student
The disruption happened during a Senate Armed Services subcommittee hearing at the U.S. Capitol complex, where lawmakers were discussing military issues tied to rising tensions in the Middle East.
What started as a protest quickly turned into a physical confrontation.
Senate Hearing Interrupted By Loud Protest
Witnesses say McGinnis, 44, of North Carolina, stood up during the hearing and began protesting U.S. military involvement overseas.
Video circulating online shows three Capitol Police officers and Senator Sheehy attempting to pull McGinnis through a wooden doorway after he allegedly grabbed onto the frame to resist being removed.
At one point, McGinnis’ arm became stuck in the door, causing people in the room to shout:
“His hand! His hand!”
Despite the situation, officers continued attempting to pull him out before eventually lowering him back down.
Moments later, McGinnis can be heard telling someone nearby:
“No, it’s not,” when asked if his hand was OK.
Protest Message: “No One Wants to Fight for Israel”
During the confrontation, witnesses say McGinnis shouted:
“No one wants to fight for Israel.”
The protest appeared to be aimed at lawmakers discussing military involvement in the escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Earlier that day, McGinnis posted a video on social media explaining why he traveled to Washington.
In the clip, he said:
“I’m here in D.C. trying to speak out against the Senate and ask them why they’re going to send our men and women into harm’s way.”
— Brian McGinnis (@BrianMcGinnisNC) March 4, 2026
He also called on Americans who feel “betrayed” by government leaders to demand accountability.
Capitol Police: Officers Injured During Arrest
U.S. Capitol Police said the situation became dangerous.
In a statement, the department said the protester violently resisted officers attempting to remove him, which led to injuries.
[WATCH] Woman Accused of Hitting Officer With Car At Charlotte Harris Teeter
Authorities confirmed three officers were treated for injuries following the confrontation.
McGinnis now faces several charges, including:
• Three counts of assault on a police officer
• Three counts of resisting arrest
• Crowding, obstructing, and incommoding
Officials say the charges stem from the protest disrupting the congressional hearing.
McGinnis is not just a protester.
According to his campaign website, he is a Marine Corps veteran and a candidate for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina, running under the Green Party banner.
