Start Here Protest Politics: High-Stakes Test for Democrats
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Jun 12, 2025 Avery Harper, ABC's political director, shares expert insights on the current political landscape shaped by protests against ICE across multiple cities. He discusses the delicate balance lawmakers face with public safety while reacting to these intense demonstrations. The conversation also touches on the high-profile drama surrounding Harvey Weinstein's retrial and its implications for the Me Too movement. Plus, Harper highlights the evolving global tensions, particularly involving Iran, and their impact on U.S. military readiness.
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Shift in ICE Enforcement Sparks Protests
- ICE raids expanded from targeting violent criminals to arresting community members without criminal records.
- This shift fueled widespread protests, escalating tensions nationwide.
Nationwide Spread of Protests
- Protests against ICE raids spread beyond Los Angeles to cities like San Francisco, Chicago, and New York.
- This expansion pressures lawmakers to respond amidst rising conflicts between protestors and federal officers.
Political Stakes in Immigration Protests
- Democrats condemn protest violence but blame Trump administration's militarized response for escalating tensions.
- Republicans frame immigration enforcement as upholding law and order, creating sharp political divides.