Protesters Greet House Speaker Ryan in Binghamton

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan was welcomed by a group of demonstrators as he visited Binghamton for a private fundraiser for Congresswoman Claudia Tenney.

The Wisconsin Republican made a brief appearance at a State Street venue late Monday afternoon to chat with invited supporters of Tenney, who is seeking a second term in the House. She's being challenged by Democratic state Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi.

The race in New York's 22nd Congressional District is receiving significant attention from both parties.

Blue police barricades were set up along State Street as officers and security personnel kept protesters away from the entrance of the building where the fundraiser was being held.

Some who attended the event reportedly paid $1,000 to be there. There was no word from Tenney's campaign about how much people were charged or how much was raised.

The demonstrators chanted expressing their support for national healthcare initiatives. Some also held signs backing Brindisi's campaign.

The fundraising event was closed to reporters. Ryan waved quickly as he left the building and was whisked out of downtown Binghamton.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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