Lawler's Town Hall Erupts as Police Remove Attendee Amid Outrage

Rep. Mike Lawler's town hall in his New York swing district descended into chaos as constituents criticized him over issues related to President Trump's agenda, including tariffs and deportations. Lawler's staff had implemented strict ground rules—such as requiring RSVPs, banning recordings, and requesting respectful conduct—but tensions flared quickly, with laughter and jeers erupting early in the event. The situation escalated when police forcibly removed a woman from the audience after she refused to leave, prompting chants of 'Let her stay!' and boos from the crowd. Lawler attempted to continue the discussion on tariffs but was repeatedly interrupted, and the event ended with many attendees walking out when the topic of protests against Israel arose. Lawler, who has signaled interest in running for governor, has continued to hold in-person forums despite growing hostility toward Republican lawmakers in similar settings. The congressman defended his bipartisan record but faced ongoing demands from the audience to more forcefully oppose the Trump administration.