Update: Let’s qualify some things. We totally understand the representative’s feelings, which are not at issue here.
And yes, the students are almost certainly political hacks. This kind of thing happens all the time, and congresspersons should know how to handle it by now. Here’s one example: have a card printed and ready, the size of a business card, explaining that a congressman’s time and space need to be respected and that you’re available to speak with constituents and journalists by appointment. Politely ask the person which group they are in. Give them the card and highlight the number they can call and explain that you’re busy. If they claim they are a constituent, request to see a driver’s license or other proof that they are who they say they are, then assure them that you will see that their request for an appointment is honoured. If they are a journalist, request them to seek access through the same channels as the rest of the media.
Just throwing some ideas out there. It’s not that hard to avoid being rude and immature on camera.
His response of course makes one suspect that this was the latest incident in a pattern of extended stalking, but the representative’s apology makes no mention of this being the case.
