By Congressman Markwayne Mullin
Lawlessness is running rampant in cities across our country, inflicting more pain on communities already suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. This past weekend, 59 police officers were injured during anti-police protests in Seattle. In Chicago, three people were killed and 59 were wounded from shootings.
For more than two months, rioters have been wreaking havoc on the city of Portland. Rocks, frozen water bottles and bricks have been thrown at law enforcement. Mortar fireworks and Molotov cocktails have been launched at police, with laser pointers also used in an attempt to blind them. Officers have also discovered bags of loaded rifle magazines near where the riots are taking place.
This is not the peaceful protesting protected under the U.S. Constitution. This is anarchy.
Democrats have refused to do so much as even condemn this lawless behavior. Congressman Jerry Nadler, the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, called it a myth. Speaker Nancy Pelosi called our law enforcement officers storm troopers, the Gestapo and thugs. Former Vice President Joe Biden criticized the federal officers in Portland for “brutally attacking peaceful protestors,” even though the riots are anything but peaceful. They are making our law enforcement officers out to be the enemy.
President Trump is standing up for law and order. He has taken steps to enforce the law by sending federal officers to these areas to help get the riots under control, protect property, and save lives.
The United States is first and foremost a nation of laws and our laws must be followed. We cannot let rioters continue to destroy our cities and attack our law enforcement officers. I will always support the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.
