DeSantis vs. Protesters: Tense Showdown Ends in Arrests

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Florida police detained a dozen protesters after a several-hour-long demonstration that blocked the entrance to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' office in the Capitol building in Tallahassee.

Protesters refused to disperse despite police warnings.

They were opposing DeSantis' policies and style of leadership. Protesters were given a 20-minute warning by Capitol police to leave the structure.

Increasing control and destroying woke

Only a dozen protesters remained after the majority had dispersed. They sang and joined arms as a line of police officers approached to take them into custody. Police reported they now face trespassing charges and a one-year ban from the Capitol.

Protesters were connected to the Dream Defenders, an organization of student activists, and Florida Rising and Showing Up for Racial Justice. They held signs that read, "Black Lives Matter" and "Community Keeps Us Safe."

Ron DeSantis has publicly opposed both ideas and pledged to destroy everything he deems woke.

The Dream Defenders garnered widespread media attention in 2013 when they staged a 31-day sit-in protest at the Florida Capitol. They then opposed Republican Governor Rick Scott's efforts to pass Florida's Stand Your Ground law.

This time, the demonstration targeted DeSantis and the Republican majority in the legislature.

Capitol Police were watching the protest, but an hour later, no one had been ejected from the office. While some visitors to the governor's office were prevented from entering by the protesters, others could deliver documents to staff members through a side door.

The demonstration happened when Florida lawmakers had floor sessions in the House and Senate. Many bills and funding proposals are being considered in this year's 60-day legislative session.

Many believe DeSantis will soon announce his presidential bid. First, he must change the laws to secure his position as a governor in case the presidential race doesn't go his way.

What do you think about arresting protesters?

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