Charlotte Congresswoman Alma Adams arrested during abortion rights protest

Driving the news: Adams was one of at least 17 House Democrats arrested at the demonstration over the Supreme Court’s recent ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, Axios’ Andrew Solender and Oriana Gonzalez report.

U.S. Capitol Police said that it started arresting demonstrators after they failed to follow multiple warnings to stop blocking a street near the Supreme Court.

• Adams was cited for crowding, obstructing, or incommoding and must pay a $50 fine within 15 days. She said she intended to do so within 48 hours.

The lawmakers are expected to be released and fined.

What they’re saying: In a statement, Adams described the protest as an act of “civil disobedience.”

• “I took part in this protest today for all of the people who feel unheard after the decision in the Dobbs case,” she said. “The Supreme Court’s decision was fundamentally wrong, so I will continue to put my body on the line – and record my votes in House – in defense of abortion rights.”
• Adams tweeted later Tuesday afternoon that she had paid her $50 bail, and was on her way to vote.

• She told reporters over Zoom the following morning she figured she would be arrested and was prepared.
• “I am a lawmaker, but I’m first of all is a woman and a mother and a grandmother who’s very concerned about this issue,” she said.

Editor’s note: This story was updated Wednesday with information from a press conference held by Adams.