Sky News reporter James Matthews was grabbed by the shoulders by a US politician during a tense live exchange on camera. The confrontation happened as Matthews, along with other members of the press, was questioning Michigan's Democratic candidate for Senate, Abdul El-Sayed.
Politician Demands Zero UK Votes
El-Sayed abruptly turned on Matthews, asking: "Are you registered to vote in Michigan? Are you registered to vote? So why would I care to have a conversation with you? Why would I care to have a conversation with you?"
When Matthews explained he is a journalist, El-Sayed responded: "In the UK! You know how many votes I want to get in the UK? Zero! So I absolutely do not care about what you think or the questions you ask."
Reporter Stands His Ground
Matthews countered: "This election matters to the world. You're bidding to be a senator-" but was cut off as El-Sayed retorted: "A senator where? In what country?"
Matthews pointed out: "Here in the United States. The leader of the free world." He added that he is based in the US and that Sky News is an international outlet, but El-Sayed insisted: "Sky News is not viewed in the United States of America. Like five people watch it."
El-Sayed continued: "I've answered all the questions I want to answer to viewers in the United Kingdom, so I'm going to ask you to stop chasing me around. Please. Thank you." During the exchange, he placed both hands on Matthews' shoulders and got close to his face, but the journalist refused to back off.
Impact Beyond US Borders
Matthews insisted: "I'm not chasing you around. I'm asking you questions." Later, he told the camera: "It's been a stressful political contest here in Michigan. Abdul El-Sayed, if he gets to Capitol Hill, he wants to serve on the foreign affairs committee. His responsibilities as a senator will extend far beyond the borders of the United States."
He added: "There are consequences for the rest of the world in terms of what happens here – who gets elected and who has power. It won't be the last time that Abdul El-Sayed, should he be elected, is asked questions by international media."
