BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Acworth, GA, April 17, 2025: A town hall event hosted by U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene in Acworth, Georgia, erupted in tension on Tuesday, April 16 evening as a group of protesters attempted to disrupt the proceedings, prompting a strong response from local law enforcement. The event, held at the Acworth Community Center, saw multiple attendees escorted out and three arrested after tensions escalated into physical confrontations.
According to the Acworth Police Department, officers were prepared for possible disruptions following intelligence gathered in advance. The police coordinated with several agencies, including the Cobb County Police Department, Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, Kennesaw Police Department, and the Georgia State Patrol, to ensure public safety.
Shortly after Rep. Greene began her remarks, police removed a man who became disruptive. Another protester resisted and was tasered before being removed by officers. A third was arrested later for shouting obscenities. In total, six people were escorted out, and three arrests were made—two of which involved taser deployment. Two of the arrested individuals face charges of simple battery on a law enforcement officer and obstruction, while a third was charged with disorderly conduct for vulgar language.
“The safety of all attendees, including Congresswoman Greene, was our top priority,” the Acworth Police Department said in a statement, adding that its officers had been “threatened, physically resisted, and harmed” while removing protesters.
Security for the event was also bolstered by Kartik Bhatt, the Veterans for America First (VFAF) Georgia State Chapter Deputy Political Director. Bhatt, an Indian-American community leader, honorary Sheriff’s Deputy, and national representative for Indians for Trump, worked closely with law enforcement to ensure order was maintained.
Seated in the front row, Bhatt reacted immediately when the disruptions began. Reacting instinctively, he stood between Rep. Greene and the crowd to ensure her safety until law enforcement intervened. “I am proud of the brave men and women who stepped in to de-escalate tensions and allow the Congresswoman’s town hall to proceed. Veterans for America First remains committed to strengthening our communities by fostering law and order and promoting constructive political engagement. When I saw the situation escalating, I immediately stood between the crowd and Congresswoman Greene to ensure her safety. It was a natural reaction—one rooted in duty and respect for our elected leaders,” Bhatt told NRI Pulse
Congresswoman Greene, a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, did not hold back during or after the disruptions. “This is a town hall; this is not a political rally; this is not a protest,” she told the crowd. “Protest is outside—bye.”
Greene also thanked police for their swift action. “I’m very thankful for how the officers handled it,” she told reporters. “I’m glad they got thrown out.”
The town hall itself focused on economic policies and Greene’s vision for rebuilding America under Trump-style leadership. She pushed back on criticisms of Trump’s tariff policies, instead blaming the Biden administration for inflation and rising costs.
“Don’t be a ‘panican,’” Greene said, referencing a term coined by Trump. “It took decades to dig this grave, and it’s going to take time to climb out.”
The event closed with a pre-submitted Q&A session, though more disruptions occurred as protesters continued shouting while exiting the venue.
