Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's event to announce his proposal for a new federal Anti-Corruption Bureau was disrupted by a self-described journalist who shouted accusations that Schumer supports genocide.
Sam Husseini, an activist who has previously interrupted public events by government officials, began yelling at Schumer during the announcement at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Husseini accused Schumer of being part of a "con" with former President Donald Trump and referenced a November 2023 notice from the Center for Constitutional Rights and other organizations regarding potential legal liability for aiding and abetting genocide.
"What can be more corrupt than backing genocide?" Husseini shouted, as Schumer attempted to continue his remarks. "You were put on notice in November of 2023 by the Center for Constitutional Rights and other legal and human rights organizations, notice on potential legal liability for aiding and abetting, inciting and conspiring to commit genocide."
Schumer, visibly irritated, responded, "Thank you for your diatribe. Now, let's continue... the people didn't come to hear you." Event staff eventually escorted Husseini from the room, but he continued to shout, calling Schumer a "genocidal maniac."
Husseini has a history of similar disruptions. Last year, he interrupted then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken's press conference, suggesting the diplomat should face international legal proceedings. A congressional staffer familiar with Husseini's past actions described him as someone who "harasses people at events."
Schumer partnered with the Public Citizen Foundation for the event to introduce his anti-corruption legislation. The proposed bill aims to establish the Anti-Corruption Bureau by consolidating the Office of Government Ethics, the Federal Election Commission, and the Office of Special Counsel. The new bureau would be granted subpoena and investigative powers and led by a seven-member board with bipartisan representation. The legislation also includes provisions to tighten anti-corruption rules for presidents, vice presidents, top administration officials, and their families.
Schumer's office declined to comment on Husseini's outburst when reached by The Post.