Congressman Maxwell Frost Punched in Racist Attack at Sundance Film Festival

Congressman Frost attacked at the Sundance Film Festival. This violent incident occurred Friday night, January 23, 2026, when a man made racist and political remarks before punching the Gen Z Congressman. Police arrested the suspect promptly. Frost reported no serious injuries and thanked security and law enforcement for their quick actions following the Sundance attack. This unfortunate event has brought renewed attention to the issue of political violence.

The Maxwell Frost Assault Unfolds

The assault on elected official Congressman Frost happened at a private party hosted by the talent agency CAA at the High West Saloon. This venue was part of the Sundance Film Festival. The attacker, identified as Christian Young, was reportedly a party crasher who had been denied entry earlier. Despite being turned away, he managed to gain access through an alternate entrance. Once inside, he went to a bathroom and allegedly made racist pronouncements, proclaiming pride in being “white.” He then confronted Congressman Frost, telling him, “Trump was going to deport me.” He also added, “We are going to deport you and your kind.” This threat was followed by a punch to Frost’s face. The assailant also attacked a female attendee, and was heard screaming racist remarks as he ran off. Event security intervened swiftly, detaining the man, and police were called to the scene to address the Maxwell Frost assault.

Suspect and Charges Following Congressman Frost Attack

Park City police arrested the assailant, Christian Young, 29. Young faces multiple charges, including aggravated burglary and two counts of simple assault. The charge of assault of an elected official is particularly serious, and sentencing enhancements are possible following the attack on Congressman Frost. Police booked him into Summit County Jail. The police affidavit detailed his actions, noting his earlier attempt to jump a security fence, which indicated intent to gain unlawful entry. Young later claimed he did not recall the events and also stated he did not know his own name, raising further questions about the motive behind the Congressman Frost attacked incident.

Congressman Frost’s Background

Maxwell Alejandro Frost is a significant political figure, representing Florida’s 10th Congressional District. Frost made history in 2022, becoming the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress. He is also the first Afro-Cuban member of the House. Born in 1997, he is a member of the Democratic Party. Prior to his congressional service, he was an activist, notably working with March for Our Lives. He champions progressive causes. His diverse background and youth make him a prominent voice, and this attack underscores the risks faced by public officials, especially in light of the Sundance attack.

Official Responses and Condemnations to the Congressman Frost Assault

Congressman Frost confirmed the incident, posting on social media platform X that he was “okay” after the attack and expressed gratitude to security and police. Frost described the current times as “scary.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “terrifying assault.” Jeffries demanded aggressive prosecution of the perpetrator, emphasizing, “Hate and political violence has no place in our country.” The Sundance Film Festival also issued a statement, strongly condemning the assault and expressing abhorrence for any violence or hate speech, calling such behavior intolerable. The festival strives for a welcoming environment. This incident, where Congressman Frost attacked, is one of the top entertainment stories from the festival, highlighting ongoing societal tensions and fueling concerns about political violence.

Broader Implications of the Sundance Attack

The attack at Sundance is deeply concerning, highlighting rising political animosity and hate-motivated incidents. The event occurred during a major cultural gathering, emphasizing that such issues can arise anywhere. The safety of public figures, like Maxwell Frost after being assaulted, remains a key concern. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and continued efforts to combat hate speech and violence. The story gained significant attention, highlighting the intersection of politics and entertainment, and the reality that even a Gen Z Congressman is not immune to such attacks.