Tennessee Republican Tim Burchett Instigates Confrontation With Protester Over Israel-Hamas Stance

Republican Representative Tim Burchett was involved in a physical altercation with a protester outside the Longworth House Office Building related to his stance on the Israel-Hamas war. While Burchett's office described the incident as a heated verbal exchange where the protester bumped the congressman, video footage reviewed by Politico and other outlets suggests Burchett initiated the confrontation by taunting the protester with insults such as "come over here, weenie" and accusing him of being funded by George Soros. The protester turned to walk away, prompting Burchett to follow and mock him further, leading to a brief physical contact when the protester spun around, after which Burchett shoved him with both hands. Burchett declined to press charges, and fellow Republican Rep. Rich McCormick defended his actions as measured. The incident highlights rising tensions between lawmakers and protesters amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza and increasing political anger spilling into public spaces. Capitol Police intervened during the altercation, and no charges were filed.