Donald Trump has been criticised for using a church near the White House for a photo op.
Last night the US President threatened to deploy units of the US Army to streets of cities where protests have become violent.
"In recent days our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters and others."
"A number of state and local governments have failed to take necessary action to protect their citizens."
He went on to threaten the use of the Army.
"I am mobilizing all available federal resources, civilian and military."
"To stop the rioting and looting, to end the destruction and arson."
Protesters On Lafayette Square Shoved Out With Tear Gas
He then made a short walk across Lafayette Square to stand in front of St. John's with a bible in his hand.
While he waited for photographers to finish taking pictures, he told the crowd that they will have a great country again quickly.
Protesters who were in the way were promptly cleared out with rubber bullets and tear gas.
There’s been another confrontation at the White House. Secret Service are trying to chase people out of a fortified Lafayette Square after they breached the barricades.
I’m at H and 16th where it’s obvious police have deployed some sort of irritant because my skin is burning. pic.twitter.com/oCpnddwWiA— Alejandro Alvarez (@aletweetsnews) May 30, 2020
Washington Bishop "Outraged"
Bishop Mariann Budde, who is from the Diocese that oversees the church, says she's "outraged" at the President's words.
"He sanctioned the use of tear gas by police officers in riot gear - to clear the church yard."
"I... am... outraged."
"We distance ourselves from the incendiary language of this President."
We are followers of Jesus. In no way do we support the President’s incendiary response to a wounded, grieving nation. We stand with those seeking justice for the death of George Floyd through the sacred act of peaceful protest.
— Mariann Budde (@Mebudde) June 2, 2020
Header image: AP Photo/Patrick Semansky
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