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The United States Capitol Police arrested 33-year-old James McIntyre of Illinois for assaulting Rep. Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican. Mace stated that McIntyre, purportedly a defender of transgender rights, physically accosted her at the Capitol. The police did not confirm McIntyre’s motivations. Mace sustained wrist injuries but stated that violence and threats would not deter her.
The incident occurred in the Rayburn House Office Building, which was open to the public. McIntyre was screened before entering. Mace recently introduced a bill to restrict the use of single-sex facilities by lawmakers and House employees, citing the election of Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, as the impetus. This measure drew protests from opponents outside a House office building the previous week.
The arrest highlights ongoing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and bathroom access in government facilities. Mace’s legislation, aimed at upholding single-sex facility use based on biological sex, has drawn criticism and protests from LGBTQ+ advocates. The incident underscores the need for continued dialogue and understanding between lawmakers and constituents on issues of gender identity and rights.
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