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John, In recent months, protests have erupted around the nation following the deaths of numerous Black people at the hands of police. One hotspot of protests has emerged in Portland, Oregon, where demonstrators have gathered almost every night since the death of George Floyd. In order to quell these protests, Trump took it upon himself to send federal agents to the area, without the consent of local authorities. These agents, oftentimes unidentified, have employed extremely aggressive tactics to force an end to peaceful protests including the use of tear gas, and physically assaulting protesters. The DHS has confirmed reports that its agents have been using unmarked vehicles to remove protesters from the streets without explanation. They even teargassed Portland’s mayor!
John, the training received, and the tactics and equipment used by ICE and Customs and Border Protection officers are inappropriate for use against peaceful protesters on the streets of America. And for the first time, we’re seeing what that hard power looks like as it's being deployed against US citizens on US soil. These developments are especially ominous as we consider the frightening possibility that Trump may use these forces to try to stay in the White House if he loses the November election. It’s not outlandish to think that this could happen! This type of law enforcement and weaponry should never be used against American citizens. It’s why Congressman Johnson has worked so hard to demilitarize the police -- because who knows how our Dictator-In-Chief may choose to misuse these tools? John, we have a real crisis on our hands, and despite all their cries against big government, Republicans have barely said a word against this infringement of civil liberties. Let’s show them that we’re listening and we won’t let their silence go unnoticed. Sign on to hold Republicans accountable for their silence by signing on to this petition NOW
-- WBW
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