Eric Alterman Arrested: "Nation" Writer Removed From Democratic Debate

Eric Alterman was arrested at the Democratic debate in Manchester, New Hampshire.  According to CNN.com, Columnist Eric Alterman, who writes for "The Nation" magazine, was inside of a room called the "debate spin room" in Manchester, New Hampshire covering the event. At one point, he wandered into an area reserved for a private reception.

Eric Alterman Arrested: "Nation" Writer Removed From Democratic Debate

He was charged with criminal trespass after police say he refused repeated orders to leave, the report details.  Alterman spoke with CNN after being released. He called the arrest a "misunderstanding" and claimed he did not refuse orders to leave.

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CNN reports: Goffstown, N.H. police said Alterman was in the spin room as a guest of the Creative Coalition and went to an area reserved for a private reception for WMUR-TV. Police said he was asked by an executive at the party if he was invited to the private area and was asked to leave.

A police officer was called after a verbal altercation ensued. According to police, Alterman was asked seven times to leave and became increasingly loud as he refused. After ignoring a final request, police said he was handcuffed and taken from the building.

He was booked and released after paying $30. Alterman said he will fight to get the charges dropped.