WASHINGTON ― The White House sought to reject any notion that President Donald Trump doesn't support peaceful protests, one day after he warned "any protesters" who interrupt his upcoming military parade in Washington will be "met with very heavy force."
"Of course the president supports peaceful protests," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a June 11 briefing with reporters. "What a stupid question."
Trump issued his threat to "any protesters who want to come out" during the June 14 parade, which will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army while also falling on Trump's 79th birthday. Trump did not distinguish between peaceful protests that are protected by the First Amendment and violent riots that violate laws.
More: Trump warns would-be protesters on Army's 250th birthday celebration of 'heavy force'
"For those people who want to protest, they're going to be met with very big force," Trump said on June 10. "And I haven't even heard about a protest. But you know, these are people who hate our country. But they will be met with very heavy force."
