Rep. Wesley Hunt Can See The Future

Does Rep. Hunt want the city to use water cannons? Or riot dogs? Or both?

The protest is slated to start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, at Houston City Hall.

In response to the news of the protests, Congressman Wesley Hunt sent a letter to Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Houston Mayor John Whitmire.

In the letter, Rep. Hunt encouraged city law enforcement officials to prepare for the protests, expressing his concerns for the city.

“The top priority for elected officials is the protection and safety of Americans," said Rep. Hunt. "In light of the recent developments in Los Angeles, as anti-ICE riots rage on, it is our duty to ensure the safety of our cities and their civilians. On Saturday, June 14th, more than 1,800 rioters are being mobilized across the country, including in our city of Houston. These rioters are encouraging mass destruction—burning flags, destroying public property, and inciting violence against law enforcement and ICE agents. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

Rep. Hunt also said that federal resources could be provided for Houston to restore order in the event that protests become violent.

The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott also released a statement, adding that the state is prepared to deploy troopers to combat lawlessness during protests.

“The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources, including Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, to uphold law and order across our state. Peaceful protests are part of the fabric of our nation, but Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles. Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be swiftly arrested and held accountable to the full extent of the law.”

Actually the protests organized by No Kings is a peaceful (and constitutional) objection to Trump’s $1 billion military birthday parade. No Kings is taking a page from the Rev. Dr. King’s playbook:

This training will prepare you to show up safely and confidently at this nonviolent action. Whether you're marching, rallying, or supporting from the sidelines, you'll learn how to protect yourself, your community, and stand up for your rights.

Or are Hunt and Abbott trying to do Trump’s bidding and be sure the protesters are met with “very heavy force”? Who brings me back to my question: Dogs? Or water cannons? Or just rubber bullets and tear gas?

Maybe we need Marines in downtown Houston this weekend.

I’m sure Abbott will say his threat to deploy “troops “ is what kept the elephants away marches peaceful.