Hillary Clinton’s campaign team reportedly used a static noise machine on Thursday to block reporters outside of a fundraiser in Denver from hearing her remarks.
That’s according to Stan Bush, a reporter for Denver’s CBS-4, who was stationed outside of the event, which was held outdoors at the home of Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, a superdelegate who has endorsed Clinton.
Bush said that the noise interference machine was turned on after a band — later identified as Big Head Todd and the Monsters — finished playing music and before Clinton spoke. The device was placed inside of a fence on the property and aimed in the direction of the press, Bush wrote.
He posted video showing what it sounded like outside of the event before and after the machine was turned on. The device produced a low-intensity throbbing noise, much like a helicopter off in the distance.
.@cascamike listen here for sound of what was turned on after the bands and just before the speeches. pic.twitter.com/GhSE15NDeN
— Stan Bush (@StanBushTV) April 8, 2016
After the sound machine was quieted, music can be heard coming from inside the event.
Here’s what it sounds like with that static noise machine turned off at the @HillaryClinton campaign fundraiser pic.twitter.com/keyuXwQad2
— Stan Bush (@StanBushTV) April 8, 2016
Clinton’s visit to Denver was solely for fundraising purposes. She lost to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders by 20 points in last month’s caucuses. According to The Denver Post, the top donor level for the fundraiser was $27,000. Funds will be dispersed between the Clinton campaign, the Democratic National Committee and state party committees.
Hillary Clinton at the Hickenlooper’s in Denver. pic.twitter.com/7P1uMoBLV6
— Thomas Higley (@tomhigley) April 8, 2016
The Clinton campaign frequently uses noise in another way to prevent reporters from overhearing the candidate’s remarks. Often, while Clinton is shaking hands with voters at campaign events, staff will crank up music to prevent reporters from recording their conversations.
The Clinton team has also been criticized for using a rope line to prevent reporters from getting too close to the former first lady.
The Clinton campaign did not respond to a request for comment.
[h/t Washington Examiner]