A CNN interview with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent Kennedy family member, was interrupted on Thursday by an anti-Biden protester's blood-curdling screams.
A CNN interview with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent Kennedy family member, was derailed on Thursday by an anti-Biden protester's blood-curdling screams.
The protester, who was not identified, began screaming as Kennedy was discussing his call for a debate with former President Donald Trump. The screaming continued for several minutes, disrupting the interview and forcing the CNN anchors to end it prematurely.
Kennedy, a son of the late Robert F. Kennedy, has been an outspoken critic of President Biden and has called for him to resign or be impeached. He has also suggested that Trump, who has not yet announced whether he will run for president in 2024, should debate him at the upcoming Libertarian Party convention.
In a statement after the interview was interrupted, Kennedy said he was "appalled" by the protester's behavior.
"This is not how we conduct civil discourse in this country," he said. "We should be able to have respectful debates about the issues without resorting to violence or intimidation."
The protester's actions drew condemnation from both Republicans and Democrats.
"This is not the way to make your voice heard," said Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel. "Peaceful protest is a right, but disrupting an interview with threats and violence is wrong."
Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison said the protester's actions were "unacceptable."
"We must all stand up against this kind of behavior and ensure that our political discourse remains civil and respectful," he said.
The incident occurred as Kennedy was promoting his new book, "The Real Anthony Fauci," which is critical of the Biden administration's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kennedy has been a controversial figure for years, but his challenge to Trump has drawn attention to his candidacy and put him in the spotlight again.
It remains to be seen whether Kennedy will be able to secure enough support to qualify for the presidential debates. But his challenge to Trump has certainly raised his profile and could make him a factor in the 2024 race.
