Protests Lead to Arrests Outside Capitol
Approximately 60 demonstrators were arrested near the U.S. Capitol after they violated a police barrier and approached the steps leading to the Capitol Rotunda. The group, consisting of veterans and military families, organized the protest in response to a military parade set for Saturday, coinciding with President Trump’s 79th birthday. The event aims to draw attention to the deployment of National Guard and active-duty Marines in Los Angeles.
Trump had warned that those who protested during the parade would face “a very heavy force,” but White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt later clarified that the president supported peaceful demonstrations. Around 75 groups participated in a peaceful demonstration at the Supreme Court on Friday night, according to Capitol Police.
As the crowd began to disperse, officers attempted to establish boundaries using bike racks. However, several attendees pushed through the barricades and crossed the police line, which led to a swift response from law enforcement. “Our officers immediately blocked the group and began arresting them,” Capitol Police stated.
All those arrested will face charges related to illegal demonstrations and violations of police boundaries. Some could also face additional charges, including assaulting officers and resisting arrest. Two individuals were transported to a local hospital for treatment following the confrontations.
The protest was organized by advocacy groups including Veterans Against War and Veterans for Peace. Brittany Ramos Debarros, a combat veteran and director of About Face: Veterans Against War, expressed the group’s stance, stating, “We want a future where we invest in veteran care, health care, and education. We won’t spend $50 million on a parade.”
The Army is scheduled to celebrate its 250th birthday on Saturday, with an expectation of around 200,000 participants for various events, including the military parade. This celebration is projected to cost about $45 million and will feature soldiers alongside military equipment.
