WASHINGTON – A large group of protesters gathered near the White House ahead of President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address Thursday.
The demonstration began at 6 p.m. on Lafayette Square.
According to a Instagram postMany protesters were part of the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights and were there to show support for Palestine as the war between Israel and Hamas continues.
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“Our rally on the State of the People in the Union will demonstrate that the American public demands a permanent cease-fire now and an end to arming Israel with our tax dollars,” he said. we read in the message.
One person was arrested at 16th and H Streets, Northwest, around 6 p.m. by MPD officers. Police say the individual has been charged with dangerous driving. No injuries were reported.
The protests added to traffic jams in the area as new road closures were put in place from 7 p.m.
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In his annual State of the Union address, Biden is expected to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict and ceasefire efforts. He is also expected to address immigration, the economy and abortion — a topic Democrats have made central to their campaign ahead of the 2024 election.
Additionally, many believe Biden will use his speech to refute claims about his age and memory, which polls show became a major sticking point for many voters ahead of November.
Biden will appear before a joint session of Congress at the U.S. Capitol at 9 p.m. ET.
Republican Senator Katie Britt of Alabama will provide GOP response after Biden finished his speech.
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