During a visit to the Kennedy Center for a performance of Les Misérables, President Donald Trump dismissed a question from Fox News reporter Gillian Turner regarding the spread of anti-ICE protests across the country. As protests erupted in response to recent immigration raids, Turner inquired if Trump had plans to address potential unrest if it escalated into another summer of riots.
When Turner suggested that protests were occurring in 16 cities, Trump sharply retorted, “Well, that’s what you’re saying. Do I believe you? I don’t think so.” However, reports indicate that protests have indeed been identified in at least 25 cities, according to NBC News, with various sources estimating differing totals.
Anticipating further gatherings, activists have organized a march on Saturday as part of the “No Kings” movement, which will correspond with Trump’s military parade and birthday celebrations.
Trump’s remarks included claims that the Los Angeles police had requested National Guard assistance to manage the protests. Yet, California Governor Gavin Newsom has stated he did not authorize such support, raising questions about the President’s assertions.
The interaction between Trump and Turner is not the first of its kind; back in January 2019, Trump had publicly criticized her and another Fox News journalist regarding border wall negotiations. A humorous mishap occurred when he mistakenly tagged a teenager with the same name in a tweet.
Historically, Turner has challenged Trump on several occasions, notably during his response to the violent 2017 Charlottesville protests, where his comments about the participants met with controversy.
While tensions continue in Los Angeles and elsewhere, there remains a desire among citizens for constructive dialogue and solutions that can lead to peaceful resolutions to ongoing conflicts surrounding immigration policies.