SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Some Democratic governors are resisting President Donald Trump's threat to deploy the U.S. military unless they dispatch National Guard units to "dominate the streets" in reaction to the violence that has gripped the country.
Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak released a statement regarding the president's remarks. The governor said to suggest that local law enforcement and the Nevada National Guard have failed or refused to protect the citizens of Nevada is "misinformed."
The governor also took the president to task for "creating division."
"At this critical time, all Americans, especially our leaders, should be sending a message of compassion and taking the time to listen," Sisolak said, "Unfortunately, the President has once again taken the path of inciting combativeness, stoking racial tensions, and creating division when we need unity more than ever. "
Gov. Sisolak is not alone in his criticism of President Trump's comments. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he doesn't believe the federal government can send military troops into his state. He accuses Trump of creating an "incendiary moment" by threatening to do so.
Demonstrations against the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis while in police custody have turned violent across the country, with people breaking into businesses and stealing, smashing car windows and setting buildings on fire.