1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

Stop Ted Cruz’s plan to criminalize protest On October 18, millions of Americans flooded the streets in nearly 3,000 cities for massive “No Kings” rallies — a nationwide show of unity for democracy, equality, and freedom -- I was one of those 7,000,000+ participating protesters. The message was clear: America has no kings, and the power belongs to the people. The push by senator Cruz is terrifying, criminalizing protests just like these is an affront to the Constitution. Cruz has introduced this legislation to weaponize federal law against protesters — and it could make speaking out a crime. Twisting anti-racketeering laws — laws meant to stop the mob — to target protest organizers and immigrant rights advocates is a perversion of the law. If he gets away with this, Americans could be arrested for simply organizing a peaceful protest. Even the FBI director has backed Cruz’s framing. That means the government could soon treat climate marchers, pro-democracy activists, and immigrant rights supporters like gang members. Let’s call this what it is: an attack on democracy. Ted Cruz and his Republican allies are trying to scare people into silence — to shut down the growing movements demanding justice, equality, and accountability. When it comes to my free speech rights, I will again be exercising them at this year's first "No Kings" protest on March 28. We can’t let Cruz and Trump’s cronies win. Congress must reject Cruz’s dangerous proposal and make clear that organizing protests is not a crime — it’s a constitutional right. Stop Ted Cruz’s plan to criminalize protest.