Biden Speech Interrupted by Protesters at Historic Charleston Church

The president’s visit to South Carolina, as part of his campaign for reelection, is viewed as a strategic move to boost his support among black voters.

President Joe Biden speaks during a campaign event at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C., on Jan. 8, 2024. Sean Rayford/Getty Images

CHARLESTON, S.C.—President Joe Biden’s speech at a historic South Carolina church on Jan. 8 was briefly interrupted by protesters who called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

The protesters screamed “ceasefire now,” forcing President Biden to pause his remarks at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston. The president resumed his speech after security personnel escorted the protesters out of the venue. The president’s supporters responded to the interruption with their own chant: “Four more years.”