On Thursday, AG Bill Barr gave prepared remarks at a press conference. As with anytime where the AG gives a statement, it is always useful to carefully parse what he is saying. This man does not state things as fact if he does not have the evidence to back up his statement.
Barr identified that when the rule of law breaks down, the promise of America does also.
Barr went on to discuss actions being taken specifically in connection with the George Floyd case. After this Barr addressed the problems concerning the civil unrest going on across the country. Barr identified the three groups who are out on the streets.
While many have peacefully expressed their anger and grief, others have hijacked protests to engage in lawlessness — violent rioting and arson, looting of businesses and public property, assaults on law enforcement officers and innocent people, and even the murder of a federal agent.
Such senseless acts of anarchy are not exercises of First Amendment rights; they are crimes designed to terrify fellow citizens and intimidate communities.
As I told the governors on Monday, we understand the distinction among three different sets of actors. The large preponderance of those who are protesting are peaceful demonstrators who are exercising their First Amendment rights.
At some demonstrations, there are groups that exploit the opportunity to engage in looting. And finally, at some demonstration, there are extremist agitators who are hijacking the protests to pursue their own separate and violent agenda.
We have evidence that Antifa and other similar extremist groups, as well as actors of a variety of different political persuasions, have been involved in instigating and participating in the violent activity.
Antifa is specifically identified in this statement. This means that the DOJ has specific evidence showing the involvement of this group of people. Antifa is a violent organization that is dedicated to the destruction of this country. Antifa is supported by Hollywood celebrities and people like the AG of Minnesota Keith Ellison.
Those on the left who were poohpoohing the idea that leftist actors were engaged in the rioting and looting should take note. Those in the media who have tried to deflect the public’s attention should probably try to be real journalists instead of acting as a propaganda arm for the Democrats and their foot soldiers.
Barr went on to indicate that 51 arrests have already been made for federal crimes in connection with the violence that has been plaguing our cities. I am certain that there will be more to come.