Hawley says he was again ‘aggressively confronted’ by protesters in Albany
Press Release, Assemblyman Steve Hawley
ALBANY – Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) recently sent a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul once again calling for decisive action and a full investigation following a second troubling incident involving protesters at the New York State Capitol.
In a letter sent this week to Gov. Hochul and the New York State Police, Hawley detailed an encounter on April 1 in which he was aggressively confronted while trying to enter the Assembly Chamber on the third floor of the Capitol. The incident mirrors a similar situation that occurred just a week earlier on March 24, when he was prevented from entering the building by protestors.
According to Hawley, a large group of individuals were inside the Capitol under the pretense of an organized protest, only to become disruptive and confrontational. As he attempted to enter the Chamber, Hawley was surrounded and physically impeded by individuals attempting to force him to answer questions and engage on their terms.
“After just weeks ago experiencing a similar situation outside the capitol, I was once again prevented from freely entering the Assembly Chamber,” Hawley said. “The protestors also prevented an individual in a wheelchair from entering. This type of behavior is unacceptable. No elected official—nor any staff member or visitor—should feel intimidated or unsafe while conducting business in the Capitol.”
Hawley also raised concerns about security protocols and the handling of protest activity within the building. He noted that while peaceful protest is a fundamental right, the line was crossed when individuals disrupt operations or threaten the safety of others.
“I will always support the right to protest, but when that right is abused to harass, intimidate or obstruct, it becomes a serious security issue,” Hawley added. “The Capitol must remain a place where public servants and visitors alike feel safe.”
In his letter, Hawley urged state officials to conduct a thorough review of both incidents and to implement stronger safeguards to prevent future occurrences. He specifically called on the New York State Police and Capitol security to reassess procedures and ensure accountability.
“New Yorkers expect their government to function in a safe and orderly manner,” Hawley said. “It is imperative that immediate steps are taken to ensure this never happens again.”
Hawley has received comment from the New York State Troopers but has not received a response from the governor at this time. He has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting both the integrity of the legislative process and the safety of all who work in and visit the Capitol.
