Pelosi got a rude awakening.
On Tuesday night, anti-Israel activists disrupted Stephen Colbert’s interview with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, which took place while she was discussing President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the Democratic National Convention (DNC) being held in Chicago.
During the interview, Pelosi was addressing questions regarding Biden’s potential withdrawal from the presidential race when loud shouts from anti-Israel agitators erupted from the audience. Colbert swiftly addressed the situation, informing viewers, “For those who can’t see, there’s a protest happening right now in the audience.”
Colbert then clarified that they were in a commercial break and emphasized the need to return to the planned discussion. He added, “We’re currently on a break, and the topic is Israel and Palestine. If you have a seat, please remain quiet so we can proceed with the program.”
The anti-Israel demonstrations outside the DNC had been ongoing throughout the week, prompting significant security measures including a heavy police presence and barriers around the event venue.
When the show resumed, Colbert directed the conversation back to Pelosi, focusing on the role of U.S. power in international matters. “As mentioned earlier, political protests are expected, especially during conventions. Within the Democratic Party, there are differing views on the use of American power abroad, both in terms of influence and military support. In seeking peace and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians, what role should the United States play?” Colbert asked.
Pelosi highlighted Biden’s extensive foreign policy experience and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Israel. She stated, “Our support for Israel aligns with our national security interests. Israel faces threats from terrorist groups, and while we advocate for the release of hostages, we also condemn harm to innocent civilians in Gaza. We must find a balanced solution.”
Pelosi mentioned Israel’s agreement to a cease-fire and expressed hope that Hamas would follow suit, emphasizing her belief that war should have no place in a civilized world.
Despite Pelosi’s response, the demonstrators continued to protest, shouting her comments back at her. Colbert then asked Pelosi if she wanted to address the protesters’ concerns. Pelosi advocated for a two-state solution to the conflict, which only intensified the protesters’ noise.
Colbert, in an attempt to maintain order, asked the audience not to interrupt and concluded the segment, stating, “We’re a live show, and we need to move on. Madame Speaker, thank you for joining us. We hope you can return to continue this important conversation.”
Colbert, known for his strong support for Democratic causes and having previously hosted a fundraiser for Biden, is broadcasting his show from Chicago this week in connection with the DNC.
WATCH:
A Gaza protester interrupts Colbert's interview with Pelosi, and he handles it perfectly "The subject is on Israel and Palestine and if you have a seat, we have to go to commercial break. When we come back, I'll ask the next question I had on that subject if you will listen, ok." pic.twitter.com/YsSDZlnxIo
— Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) August 21, 2024