Activist Chants About Epstein Plane At Trump Ohio Rally

Robert Potylo, an activist known for online disruptions, interrupted President Donald Trump’s speech in Chillicothe, Ohio, on Wednesday by singing a song about the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The protest began within the first few minutes of the rally.

Potylo, who uses the social media handle Robby Roadsteamer, sang to the melody of the Village People’s “YMCA.” The lyrics stated that Trump went on the Epstein plane. He also chanted specific phrases directed at the crowd. The audience booed during the performance.

Epstein died in prison in 2019. In February, Representative Jamie Raskin disclosed that Trump’s name appeared in unredacted Epstein files more than a million times. Potylo stated he hoped to start his disruption early to avoid listening to the full hours-long address. He noted he has used this tactic on other figures, including Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk.

Potylo shaved his beard for the first time in two decades for the event. He said he wanted to avoid recognition by security personnel or supporters. A physical altercation occurred when a supporter knocked Potylo’s phone out of his hand. Potylo retrieved the device from under a bench. He said security eventually escorted him to local police officers.

Trump labeled Potylo a paid protester on the podium. The president claimed the activist received $250 for his appearance. Potylo disputed this figure in a post-rally interview. He said he collected a higher amount in donations after video of the event spread across social media platforms.

The activist has built a following by challenging Trump allies. In 2024, he asked Bannon about the next insurrection during a press conference. Potylo compared the timing of his interruptions to previous disruptions. He emphasized his strategy of entering speeches within the first five minutes.

Police officers managed the crowd outside the venue after Potylo’s removal. They ensured he was not approached by remaining supporters. The rally continued after the incident. Trump finished his scheduled remarks to the assembled crowd in Chillicothe.