Shortly after gold star father Steve Nikoui was apprehended by Capitol Police for voicing his grievances during President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, he received a hero’s welcome at an Irish pub in Washington, D.C., as reported by the New York Post.
Amidst Biden’s assertion that “America’s safer today than when I took office,” Nikoui interjected with a poignant reminder, shouting “Abbey Gate! Second Battalion. First Marines.”
According to Axios, Nikoui was detained by Capitol Police and charged with “crowding, obstructing, or incommoding,” categorized as a misdemeanor offense.

Nikoui’s son, Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, tragically lost his life during the attack on Hamid Karzai International Airport in August 2021, a devastating consequence of Biden’s decision to withdraw all U.S. forces from Afghanistan. Steve Nikoui, a guest of Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), was among other gold star families invited to the Capitol for the address.
As Nikoui entered the Dubliner Restaurant, adjacent to the U.S. Capitol, where fellow gold star families had gathered, cheers erupted in his honor, demonstrating unwavering support for his courageous act.
House Republicans advocating for the families urged Capitol Police to drop the charges against Nikoui, with Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.) even pledging to cover any potential fine.

Gold star father Darin Hoover, speaking to the Post, disclosed that Nikoui could face a $500 fine, 90 days in jail, or both for his actions. Reflecting on the ordeal, Hoover emphasized Nikoui’s faith and unwavering pursuit of answers regarding his son’s death.
Marine Staff Sgt. Darin “Taylor” Hoover, son of Darin Hoover, also perished in the suicide bombing at Abbey Gate.
Upon his arrival at the pub, Nikoui was warmly embraced by Darin Hoover, who expressed his pride, saying, “I’m so proud of you,” as reported by the Post.

Thanks to ToddStarnes.com for contributing to this article.
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