1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

There is not an “invasion” of our country by immigrants — undocumented or not — and what is happening in LA is not an “insurrection.” The deployment of Marines and the National Guard in LA is nothing but attempted provocation. The rule under which they were deployed, 10 J.S.C. 12406, provides that "the president may call into federal service members and units of the National Guard of any State in such numbers as he considers necessary to repel the invasion, suppress the rebellion, or execute those laws," in the event that "the United States, or any of the commonwealths or possessions, is invaded or is in danger of invasion by a foreign nation; there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States; or the president is unable with the regular forces to execute the laws of the United States." None of these conditions apply. Also, please recall that when there was an actual insurrection on January 6, 2021, President Trump refused to act and then pardoned each and every participant — even ones who assaulted Capitol Police officers. President Trump also chillingly stated his intent to meet protesters against his military parade with force. This is, without question, at odds with the First Amendment. The right to peaceable assembly for the redress of grievances is a constitutional right. You don’t have to like or agree with what protesters say, but freedom of speech is either for everyone or for no one. Please speak out and condemn this administration’s actions. Find your courage and defend the constitution, which you swore to uphold.