Story perspectives

Fanone Confronts Election Denier Raiklin in Heated Exchange

1/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

During a congressional hearing on January 22, 2026, former Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone confronted election denier Ivan Raiklin during a break as former special counsel Jack Smith testified.
Raiklin filmed the confrontation and mocked Fanone's emotions, with footage circulating widely.
Capitol officers intervened to separate them, and Raiklin later said he would sue Fanone for defamation, insisting he had always been professional.
Footage of the incident circulated widely.

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Story summary

During a congressional hearing on January 22, 2026, former Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone confronted election denier Ivan Raiklin during a break as former special counsel Jack Smith testified.
Raiklin filmed the confrontation and mocked Fanone's emotions, with footage circulating widely.
Capitol officers intervened to separate them, and Raiklin later said he would sue Fanone for defamation, insisting he had always been professional.
Footage of the incident circulated widely.