A photojournalist was ejected from impeachment hearings against Trump after taking photos of confidential papers. Reuters, who rep the photographer in question, insists he did nothing wrong.
Joshua Roberts was spotted taking pictures of the papers by a Republican member of the House Judiciary Committee. It was during a break in the hearing that Roberts seized his chance to start taking pictures of documents on the desk of House Judiciary Committee member Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD). Reuters went on to publish the images.
CNN, which has been streaming a live feed of the hearings, actually caught the incident occurring. Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) revealed the pictures taken were of the desk of a democrat. Roberts was removed as per the request of Republicans. Gaetz said:
During the break, a Reuters photographer, Josh Roberts, walked over to the dais and took pictures of the notes of the desks of several of my Democratic colleagues. We noticed that, announced it to staff, and that reporter, that photographer, has been removed. And I would just say, no member, Republican or Democrat, should be subject to that. We ought to have the opportunity to take our notes, participate in debate, and have a fair discussion.
Reuters disputed any wrongdoing, stating:
[Roberts’] photos include members’ copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Holy Bible, The Federalist Papers and pieces of illegible paper that were sitting on the dais. He broke no rules and left the hearing voluntarily.
Roberts’ photos from are available to view on the Reuters site.