DeSantis Defends Drivers Amid ‘No Kings’ Protest Plans

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stirred controversy this week by stating that drivers who feel threatened by protesters surrounding their vehicles have the right to drive through the crowd — even if it results in injuries.

“If a mob surrounds your car and threatens you, you have a right to flee. If someone gets hit, that’s their fault,” DeSantis said on The Rubin Report podcast.

His comments come ahead of the nationwide “No Kings” protests scheduled for Saturday, including in South Florida. The demonstrations, organized by the 50501 Movement, are intended to counter what they call the authoritarianism of former President Donald Trump. The protests coincide with Trump’s 79th birthday, Flag Day, and a military parade in Washington, D.C. celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary.

Despite DeSantis’ remarks, Miami defense attorney Mark Eiglarsh cautioned against overreach. “The right to use deadly force in Florida only exists when you reasonably fear death or great bodily harm,” he said. “You don’t get free rein to hit protesters just because they’re near your car.”

Florida’s 2021 “Combatting Public Disorder” law, passed after the George Floyd protests, increased penalties for violent demonstrators. However, legal experts emphasize that drivers still bear responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.

Protest organizers stress the demonstrations will be peaceful. “We have trained de-escalators,” said Michelle Sylvester of Palm Beach Indivisibles. “Violence is not part of the plan.”

DeSantis, a vocal critic of recent immigration-related protests in California, reiterated on the podcast: “You don’t have to be a sitting duck. You have a right to defend yourself.”

As tensions rise, both sides brace for a politically charged weekend.