As a massive protest movement approaches across the United States, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faces renewed criticism after justifying drivers’ right to break through protester blockades if they feel threatened.
In an interview with The Rubin Report, DeSantis discussed a provision in Florida law that, according to him, allows drivers to clear their path if their safety is at risk.
“If a crowd surrounds your vehicle and threatens you, you have the right to leave to ensure your safety,” he stated. He added: “If while leaving, you hit someone, it’s their responsibility because they were preventing you from moving,” declared Ron DeSantis. “You’re not required to remain passive and get dragged out of your car. In Florida, we protect the right to self-defense,” added the aspiring heir to the MAGA movement.
These comments come amid rising tensions, days before No Kings Day, a national day of mobilization planned for June 14, Flag Day in the United States. Presented as the largest protest against the Trump administration since his reelection in January, this demonstration is expected to gather more than 1,800 actions across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, according to organizers. Parallel mobilizations are also planned abroad, particularly in Germany, Italy, Portugal, and the United Kingdom.
No Kings Day was conceived as a direct response to the military parade announced in Washington to celebrate Donald Trump’s birthday, also scheduled for June 14. According to The Mirror US, this show of force, including tanks, fighter jets, and armored vehicles, could cost between 25 and 45 million dollars, not counting potential repairs estimated at 16 million dollars for possible urban damage.
The organizers of No Kings Day claim to offer a peaceful and democratic alternative to what they view as a display of authoritarianism. In a statement shared by the British media, they specify: “Trump wants a display of military might. But real power doesn’t come from Washington: it’s built everywhere else.”
The central message is unequivocal: “No Kings is a day of refusal. We reject all forms of authoritarianism and want to show the world what true democracy looks like”, reports Newsweek.
Facing the controversy, the governor’s office quickly responded. Moly Press, deputy spokesperson for Ron DeSantis, told Newsweek:
“In Florida, violence is never tolerated. However, citizens have the right to protect their lives and families.”
Nevertheless, for many observers, the governor’s remarks could be interpreted as a green light for excessive force against protesters, risking heightened tensions on the eve of this historic day of mobilization.
