Abbott orders National Guard deployment to protests
Gov. Greg Abbott says he will deploy the Texas National Guard across the state ahead of protests planned this weekend against the Trump administration.
Why it matters: Thousands are expected to protest during "No Kings Day" on Saturday across the state and nation.
Abbott's decision comes amid a national debate about the militarization of law enforcement and the rights of protestors.
What they're saying: The national guard "will be deployed to locations across the state to ensure peace & order," Abbott posted on X late Tuesday night.
"Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest."
He instructed the Texas National Guard to "use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order."
Catch up quick: The protests on Saturday are part of a nationwide demonstration to counter President Trump's multimillion-dollar military parade in Washington, D.C.
"We stand united in solidarity with those peacefully protesting ICE and federal aggression while condemning all violence," per a statement signed by a handful of Austin city council members this week. "As the Trump administration continues its assault on free speech and dissent, it's critical to act with intention, stay informed, and look out for one another."
Meanwhile, Texas state troopers are monitoring planned events and " stand ready," the Department of Public Safety said Tuesday.
The White House has already deployed the National Guard and Marines in response to protests in Los Angeles against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.
The big picture:"No Kings" events planned for Saturday are expected to be the largest single-day anti-Trump rally since the start of the administration.
The movement echoes earlier Hands Off, May Day and 50501 protests.
The organizers say the intent of the rallies is to "reject authoritarianism."
Zoom in: People gathered this week in Austin and other cities across Texas to protest the administration's mass deportation plans. One person was arrested in Dallas and several were arrested in Austin.
"Peaceful protesting is legal," Abbott wrote on X on Tuesday. "But once you cross the line, you will be arrested."
He posted about the Department of Public Safety's planned response to future protests, saying, "Don't mess with Texas law enforcement."
The other side:"Donald Trump wants tanks in the street and a made-for-TV display of dominance for his birthday," the No Kings website said.
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