Video: Gov. Ron DeSantis discusses the protests in Los Angeles.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – During a podcast ahead of Saturday’s planned protest, Gov. Ron DeSantis emphasized that Florida Driver “have a right to protect himself if he feels threatened.”
The governor said the drivers would not be held responsible if they were attacked by protesters, as long as they were afraid of their safety.
Watch: e-bike teens run away from Florida women.
“If you’re driving one of those streets and the mobs are surrounding your car and threatening you, you have the right to run away for your safety, so if you drive and attack any of these people, it’s their fault for hitting you.”
The governor’s remarks are as people from cities across the country, including some of Tampa Bay, are expected to engage in “king” protests against the Trump administration and its policies.
The rally coincides with Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., to commemorate the Army’s 250th anniversary. It will fall on the anniversary and the president’s birthday.
Tensions have escalated amid protests over the Los Angeles immigration attack, with many questioning the deployment of presidential troops in the area.
According to the Associated Press, there are reports that anti-ICE protesters are blocking roads, including the Los Angeles highway.
Desantis was openly critical of the demonstration and California’s response.
“You don’t have to be a duck sitting there and have the mob grab you out of the car and drag you down the street. You have the right to protect yourself in Florida,” DeSantis said on a podcast Wednesday.