Katie Porter responds to brawl that broke out at her CA event

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“In our town halls, we take measures, such as putting all questions in a bingo ball spinner, so that we hear all voices, not just the loudest. It is disappointing that a small but vocal group of participants , which announced a ‘confrontational rally’, created dangerous conditions at a planned family event, ”Porter said in a statement provided to CNN.

Ahead of Porter’s event, Nick Taurus, who says he plans to run against Porter in the midterm election, posted on Instagram that he wanted his supporters to join him at mayoralty to “TAKE ON KATIE PORTER! ”

Since the incident, Taurus has said on Instagram that he and his supporters have been “attacked by rabid leftists” at town hall and alleged that Porter only answered “screened” questions.

Porter said in a statement to CNN that his team is assessing how to keep their events secure going forward, an ongoing challenge for members facing increased security threats in their home district.

“While I absolutely respect their right to disagree, their disruption disrespected all families who attended and were ready to engage in a thoughtful, civil and safe manner. My team and I are evaluating the next steps, but my promise to families in Orange County is that I will continue to hold town halls and be in conversation with them, ”Porter continued.

According to the Los Angeles Times, which first reported the details of the incident, the brawl broke out shortly after Porter began speaking to a crowd of a few hundred people at Mike Ward Community Park in Irvine, who was his first town hall in person since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. As Porter spoke, according to the Times, a handful of protesters shouted “Carpetbagger Katie!” and “The Corrupt Katie Porter”.

In response to protesters, Porter’s supporters chanted “Katie! Katie! Katie! or shouted “Shut up!”

When the protest escalated into punches, Porter allegedly rushed into the scuffle and, according to the Los Angeles Times, wrapped his arms around an elderly woman near the fray.

The Irvine Police Department said in a statement that its officers were on site for the event and it turned violent.

“Our agents were on hand for the event. There were opposing opinions at the town hall. It heated up and punches were thrown. A man received a nosebleed. The suspect was arrested, received a citation and released from the scene. The assault occurred around 3:45 p.m., “the Irvine Police Department said in a statement.

CNN’s Stella Chan contributed to this report.

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