Neil Young publicly criticized Donald Trump, blaming him for damaging America and urging people to rise peacefully against his administration's actions, especially following a controversial shooting incident involving ICE.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson indicated that the Texas National Guard may assist the Texas Department of Public Safety during upcoming protests in Austin, as Texas Governor Greg Abbott deploys the Guard across the state to maintain order, while emphasizing the importance of peaceful assembly and condemning violence. The move has received mixed reactions, with some officials supporting the deployment and others criticizing it as a threat to free speech.
The "Take Our Border Back" convoy, aiming to peacefully protest and urge the U.S. government to secure the border with Mexico, arrived in Dripping Springs after traveling through nine states. Supporters gathered to wave them on, with some planning to join the convoy, expressing concerns about illegal entry into the United States and advocating for a secure border. The convoy is seen as a peaceful way to raise awareness about border issues and show support for the governor's efforts to address the situation.
Thousands of people gathered in Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square for the 39th annual lighting of the 75-foot holiday tree, adorned with 9500 LED lights. The event brought together the community in a festive atmosphere, with attendees expressing joy and appreciation for the lively downtown ambiance. However, a peaceful pro-Palestinian protest also took place during the tree lighting. The festivities included musical performances by various artists and choirs. The tree will remain lit throughout the holiday season.
More than a dozen people were arrested during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Brooklyn, as tensions flared between police officers and protesters. The rally, which started peacefully with thousands marching for a ceasefire in the Middle East, saw 19 people detained and 16 cited for disorderly conduct. Three individuals are facing more serious charges, including resisting arrest. Protesters from various communities came together to demand peace and the recognition of Palestinian rights, emphasizing the need for dialogue and non-violent solutions.
NCAA champion swimmer Riley Gaines was physically and verbally assaulted by pro-transgender protesters after her speech at San Francisco State University. Gaines was barricaded in a classroom for three hours and missed her flight home. SF State’s vice president for student affairs and enrollment management, Jamillah Moore, sent an email that made no mention of an apology to Gaines, or the acts following her speech about saving women’s sports to the university’s chapter of Turning Point USA. Gaines plans to identify those who assaulted her and press charges.
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) said that if former President Donald Trump is arrested for his involvement in possibly paying hush money during his 2016 presidential campaign, his supporters should be able to protest peacefully, but law enforcement officials should be prepared to prevent violence. Kelly acknowledged that charging a former president would be unprecedented, but emphasized that nobody is above the law and that the process would need to be worked out between Trump and his lawyers.