Ezell Statement: Violence and Obstruction Are Not Protected Speech

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement about the ongoing situation in Minneapolis: The incident in Minneapolis was entirely preventable. Unfortunately, the reckless and unlawful actions of Renee Good left U.S. ICE agents with no choice but to defend themselves and the officers supporting them. Forcefully blocking an active federal investigation is illegal. Using a vehicle in an attempt to strike law enforcement officers is illegal. These actions placed lives at risk and cannot be excused. President Trump deployed U.S. ICE agents to Minneapolis to enforce federal immigration law. Americans are free to hold differing opinions on immigration policy, but the facts are clear: these officers were lawfully carrying out their duties under existing U.S. law. The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, religion, the press, peaceful assembly, and the right to petition the government. It does not protect violent behavior, obstruction of law enforcement, or attempts to harm officers because someone disagrees with their mission. Lawful protest is a cornerstone of our democracy. Endangering lives and obstructing justice are not. It’s time we stop blaming law enforcement for doing their duty. They are not thugs or nazi’s. They are law enforcement agents carrying out U.S. laws.