Protest Disrupts Lawler’s Luncheon; Tensions Rise in NY

NYACK, N.Y. — A luncheon featuring U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler was interrupted by protesters on Thursday, March 20, causing a temporary halt to the event at Hotel Nyack. Approximately a dozen demonstrators entered the venue, unfurled a banner reading “Elon’s Puppet,” and chanted, “lawless Lawler,” sparking a brief scuffle with some attendees.

The disruption occurred just as Lawler, a Republican representative for New York’s 17th Congressional District, and Rockland Business Association (RBA) President Ken Zebrowski were preparing to speak. Despite the chaos, Lawler and Zebrowski resumed the event after the protesters exited and the approximately 150 attendees returned to their seats.

“If you think that was bad, you should see what happens when I return home after two weeks in D.C.,” Lawler said humorously after the crowd settled. He acknowledged the frustration of the protesters, stating their actions were rooted in their disappointment over losing an election. “I really don’t give a s–t,” he added, emphasizing his stance on facing criticism.

Lawler, claiming to be one of the most bipartisan members of Congress, expressed a preference for open debate rather than suppressing dissenting opinions. “They want absolutism,” he said, addressing the concerns of those who oppose his policies.

The protesters were affiliated with Climate Defiance, a group advocating for climate action, reflecting a broader trend of increasing activism directed at political representatives. In the days leading up to the luncheon, Lawler’s previous event attracted around 4,000 participants, indicating heightened public engagement with his work.

While the crowd at the RBA included numerous elected officials and leaders from various businesses and nonprofit organizations, only a few questions posed to Lawler touched on contentious issues prevalent in other GOP town halls. In response to growing demands, Lawler has announced plans to hold in-person town hall gatherings throughout his district, which encompasses Rockland, Putnam, and parts of Westchester and Dutchess counties; however, specific dates and locations remain unconfirmed.