Leavitt SNAPS – First Amendment Fallout
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed a reporter’s question about peaceful protests at an upcoming military parade as “stupid,” sparking controversy amid broader tensions over First Amendment rights and immigration enforcement.
At a Glance
- Press Secretary Leavitt called a question about allowing peaceful protests at Trump’s military parade “stupid” while affirming the president supports First Amendment rights
- President Trump previously warned protesters would face “very heavy force” and referred to potential demonstrators as “people that hate our country”
- Over 300 illegal immigrants have been arrested in Los Angeles since anti-ICE protests began June 6, with more than half having criminal records
- The military parade in Washington, D.C. will cost approximately $45 million and coincides with Trump’s birthday
Tense Exchange Over Protest Rights
During a contentious White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded sharply when questioned about President Trump’s stance on peaceful protests at an upcoming military parade in Washington, D.C. The exchange occurred after Trump had previously warned that protesters at Saturday’s parade would be met with “very heavy force.” When directly asked if the president would allow peaceful demonstrations at the event, Leavitt dismissed it as a “stupid question” while maintaining that Trump supports First Amendment rights.
Leavitt emphasized that while the president supports peaceful protest, he draws a clear line when it comes to violence. “President Trump of course supports the First Amendment. He supports peaceful protests,” Leavitt stated firmly. “What he doesn’t support is violence. He doesn’t support assaulting law enforcement officers.” The parade, expected to cost approximately $45 million, will feature military hardware and thousands of soldiers in a display coinciding with Trump’s birthday.
Immigration Enforcement Actions
During the same briefing, Leavitt announced significant developments in immigration enforcement efforts. Over 300 illegal immigrants have been arrested in Los Angeles since anti-ICE demonstrations began on June 6. According to the press secretary, more than half of those detained have prior criminal records. These arrests come amid nationwide protests against immigration enforcement raids that have intensified in recent weeks.
The president’s characterization of potential parade protesters as “people that hate our country” has added fuel to an already tense situation. Trump’s comments and the administration’s hardline stance on both protesters and illegal immigration have become flashpoints in a broader national debate over civil liberties and border security. Critics argue the administration is suppressing legitimate dissent, while supporters maintain the focus is on preventing violence and enforcing existing laws.
Musk Apologizes, Administration Moves Forward
In a separate development, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk apologized for recent posts criticizing President Trump. Musk, who previously served as head of Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), had made public statements that appeared to criticize the administration’s policies. According to Leavitt, while the president appreciated Musk’s apology, no efforts have been made to reinstate him to his former position within the administration.
The upcoming military parade represents a significant logistical undertaking, with thousands of military personnel expected to participate. As preparations continue, security measures are being enhanced in anticipation of both the high-profile nature of the event and the possibility of demonstrations. The administration has made it clear that while peaceful assembly will be permitted in accordance with First Amendment protections, any violence or disruption will be met with a firm response from law enforcement.
