Contrary to Lauren Boebert’s denial, surveillance footage suggests she was vaping during the ‘Beetlejuice’ show

Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Republican congresswoman from Colorado, is facing controversy after surveillance video captured her allegedly vaping inside a theater during a performance of the musical “Beetlejuice” in Denver on Sunday. The video, obtained by NBC’s Denver affiliate, shows Boebert sitting next to a man as people around her were still getting seated. In the video, she raises one of her hands to her face and a puff of smoke is seen coming out of her mouth towards the person in front of her. This contradicts her aide’s claim that the smoke was emitted from fog machines.

The incident occurred while the lights were lowered in the theater, and a woman sitting behind Boebert leaned in to speak to her. The woman, who was pregnant, reportedly asked Boebert to stop vaping, but the congresswoman refused to do so. The Denver Post reported on the incident and stated that the woman asked Boebert to cease vaping due to the potential harm it could cause to her unborn child.

In addition to vaping, the video also showed Boebert taking flash photos during the show and raising her arms as if to dance. As a result of her disruptive behavior, she was ultimately escorted out of the performance on Sunday night. An incident report obtained by NBC News revealed that two patrons were asked to leave the Buell Theatre in Denver that night. The report stated that the two individuals were warned during intermission about their behavior, which allegedly involved vaping, singing, and causing a disturbance. The disruptive behavior prompted three complaints from other theatergoers.

Boebert’s campaign manager, Drew Sexton, denied the allegations that Boebert was vaping. He claimed that the smoke came from heavy fog machines and electronic cigarettes that were used during the show. Sexton suggested that there may have been a misunderstanding from someone sitting near Boebert. Neither Sexton nor Boebert’s congressional office immediately responded to NBC News’ requests for comment.

Boebert herself acknowledged being at the show in posts on social media, where she claimed to have thoroughly enjoyed it. However, she did not address the allegations of vaping or the disruptive behavior that led to her being escorted out of the theater.

This incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the conduct of elected officials in public spaces. Critics argue that Boebert’s behavior was inappropriate and disrespectful, while supporters maintain that she should be able to enjoy leisure activities without facing scrutiny. As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how Boebert and her team will respond to the allegations and whether any further consequences will arise from her actions.

Original Story at www.nbcnews.com – 2023-09-15 14:24:33