The governor is deploying state forces to Austin ahead of the protest planned Saturday against the Trump administration.
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced Thursday that he is sending the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and National Guard troops to Austin ahead of a protest scheduled for Saturday.
Austin is one of many U.S. cities participating in the second day of “No Kings” protests, aimed at demonstrating opposition against President Donald Trump’s administration. The governor called the planned protest an “antifa-linked demonstration.”
“Violence and destruction will never be tolerated,” Abbott said in a statement ahead of the protest. “Texas will deter criminal mischief and work with local law enforcement to arrest anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property,” the statement said in part.
Abbott said special agents and Texas Rangers will also be present in the capital city for the protest and that those who “engage in unlawful activity” will face charges.
KVUE reached out to DPS for a statement following the governor’s announcement. A spokesperson said in part:
“The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has a duty to protect the people and property of Texas and is continuously monitoring events and their impact on public safety across the state, including this weekend’s planned protest in Downtown Austin and around the State Capitol Complex. The department does not discuss operational specifics, but we can tell you that we adjust our operations, including personnel and resources, as needed to address potential and emerging threats. At this time, there are no plans to close the State Capitol or State Capitol grounds.
As a law enforcement agency, upholding the laws and freedoms of the people of this state is one of our top priorities. DPS believes strongly in Texans’ right to free speech and assembly while also following rules set in place to maintain a safe environment for demonstrators and the public. As with any demonstration or event, it is never acceptable to interfere with official police duties, disobey lawful orders given by police officers or assault an officer of the law.”
DPS also reminded Texans planning to take part in or be near the demonstrations to drive defensively, plan ahead, bring essential items like water and a portable phone charger, follow directions and stay aware of their surroundings. The agency also reminded the public that they can report any suspicious activities or behaviors through the iWatchTexas mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251. All reports are confidential.
KVUE has also reached out to the Austin Police Department (APD) and city of Austin leaders, including Mayor Kirk Watson, for comment on the governor’s deployment of troopers and the National Guard. This article will be updated as we receive responses.
Protest organizer responds
Saturday’s protest in Austin is being organized by Hands Off Central Texas. KVUE spoke with the group’s president, Sophia Mirto, on Thursday following the governor’s announcement.
“Everyone knows that Antifa is not an organization in the United States. Antifascism is an idea that is core to the identity of America as a country. Our grandfathers and grandmothers fought Nazis in Europe generations ago to make sure that America would be a democracy in good company of other Democratic nations around the world,” Mirto said.
“As for the Governor choosing to spend extra tax money on extra law enforcement agencies, we hope that all the law enforcements agencies that show up to our event enjoy the live music from local Austin artists,” Mirto continued. “We hope that unlike federal troops they are getting paid for their extra time, and we encourage everyone to talk to the more than 50 organizations that will be tabling so that Texans that are descending on Austin from all over the state for this event can find organizations that are fighting to make Texas a better, safer place.”
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson responds
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson released a statement on Thursday regarding the National Guard deployment:
“I have confirmed that the National Guard will be prepared to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety and otherwise take actions on Saturday, if deemed necessary. We are told that the Guard will not be on the streets of Austin unless there is a determination that there is an emergency need.
The City of Austin and I will continue to protect the right of people to peacefully assemble. I support people exercising their right to engage in peaceful protest against politics and policies that they disagree with. Power should always stay with the people—where it belongs. I share the belief in our democracy. I am committed—now more than ever—to stand against efforts to devalue and dismantle our democracy.
Peacefully holding people accountable is part of that. While Austin will protect that right, destructive actions or efforts that hurt people, including police, is wrong. You are damaging your city, and you may be giving those you protest against what they want–an excuse to militarize our streets. Let me be clear: I don’t condone the militarization of our streets. I also don’t condone unpeaceful acts that threaten people’s health or safety, do damage to property, and disrupt the right of those who want to peacefully protest.
Much of what we see out of Washington is to create fear and chaos. Unfortunately, our state engages in this, too. We should not play into these politics.
We must continue to assert our first amendment rights to peacefully assemble and to hold elected officials accountable. As mayor, I’m committed to doing this and ensuring that Austinites have a safe, healthy community where they can thrive.”
Austin Police Department statement
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis released a statement regarding Saturday’s protest:
“The Austin Police Department fully supports and upholds our community’s constitutional right to peacefully assemble. Safeguarding these freedoms and ensuring the safety of everyone, including demonstrators, bystanders and officers, is fundamental to our mission.
Austin has a proud history of peaceful assemblies, and we recognize the importance of open dialogue during these events. To support that effort, members of our Dialogue Police Team will be on site, easily identified by blue vests, to assist demonstrators, answer questions and help ensure that lawful expression occurs safely.
We will work as needed with our law enforcement partners to support public safety and ensure events remain peaceful and orderly. While APD is fully prepared for Saturday’s protest, we will take appropriate action when individuals engage in illegal acts that threaten the safety of others or damage property. Those responsible will be held accountable.”
Previous ‘No Kings Day’ protests
The “No Kings” demonstration is planned in all 50 states, including Washington, D.C., on Oct. 18. More than 2,000 events are set to take place across the country, with others happening in Germany, Sweden, the United Kingdom and other international locations.
In Central Texas, participating cities include Pflugerville, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg and more.
A similar national day of protests took place in June, organized by political organization 50501. More than five million people –including in Austin – protested against the Trump administration on the president’s 79th birthday.