Texas Sen. Ted Cruz released a video blasting far-left activists advocating for police departments to be defunded.
In the video, titled “We Will Defend America Against Violent Anarchists,” the Republican took aim at recent efforts by activists to physically remove statues of historical figures, asserting that rioters deliberately target black communities.
“What the far-Left is doing, they hate America,” Cruz began. “You are not a social justice warrior if you’re lining up, seeking accolades for your support of violent criminals who are deliberately targeting the African American community.”
The video shows members of Congress, including Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar, calling for the “dismantling” of police departments, while also showing presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden ostensibly agreeing he would take firearms away from people.
“Sen. Cruz is taking action and introducing legislation allowing suits against local officials who fail to keep Americans safe by pulling back police protection,” said an email from Cruz’s office.
There is no specific date as to when Cruz will introduce the legislation, but it will focus on allowing people to sue municipalities and local governments who “pull back police protection,” according to the video.
Protests following the death of George Floyd while in police custody on Memorial Day have sought to raise awareness about systemic racism and police brutality against nonwhite people. Some activists have called for abolishing the police, but others argue the “defund the police” movement is more about shrinking the police budget and shifting funds over to mental healthcare, affordable housing, and other services.
