Rep. Stewart Urges People Not To Participate In Armed Protests
Jan 15, 2021, 9:27 AM
FILE: Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah (Photo by Jacquelyn Martin - Pool/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jacquelyn Martin - Pool/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – As Salt Lake City joins state capitols across the country in preparation for possible violence ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration, Rep. Chris Stewart is asking constituents not to participate in armed protests.
The Utah Republican on Twitter wrote that he has received “chilling” reports from federal officials about protests planned in Utah that would be similar to the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
“For those planning to participate in any of these armed protests – don’t,” he tweeted. “For those who choose violence, rest assured you will be found and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
For those planning to participate in any of these armed protests—don’t. For those who choose violence, rest assured you will be found and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
— Rep. Chris Stewart (@RepChrisStewart) January 15, 2021
Stewart wrote that political violence and domestic terrorism have “plagued our nation all summer,” adding that people on both sides feel marginalized.
If those people aren’t heard, it would result in more of the divisive behavior, according to the congressman.
“Further discord and violence will do nothing to heal the deep wounds that exist within our nation,” he wrote.
Failure to do so will only result in more of the same divisive behavior. Further discord and violence will do nothing to heal the deep wounds that exist within our nation.
— Rep. Chris Stewart (@RepChrisStewart) January 15, 2021
Stewarts remarks come after Gov. Spencer Cox issued a state of emergency that will be in effect through Jan. 21. The order is in anticipation of potential protests that could take place through Inauguration Day.
“We respect the right of Utah residents to peaceably assemble as guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution,” Cox said. “But we draw the line at threats to physical safety or to the Utah Capitol building. No violence of any kind will be tolerated.”
The Utah Highway Patrol has reported credible threats in Salt Lake City, and troopers have enhanced security efforts.
Crews have also boarded up government buildings downtown in an effort to prevent vandalism.
