SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Security video shows a Republican state representative letting protesters into the Oregon Capitol building, which was closed to the public, during a December special legislative session. Demonstrators attacked authorities with bear spray and broke glass doors as lawmakers inside the building on Dec. 21 discussed coronavirus-related bills. Around 50 protesters briefly breached the building. The Capitol has been closed to the public as part of a pandemic safety measure. House Speaker Tina Kotek said Thursday during a news conference about the Capitol operations safety plan that Rep. Mike Nearman, R-Independence, had allowed protesters into the building. Kotek called Nearman’s actions “reckless and dangerous.”
Video: Lawmaker opened Oregon Capitol to protesters in 2020
