Beshear activates Emergency Operations Center ahead of ‘No Kings’ protests

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Gov. Andy Beshear has opened the state’s Emergency Operations Center ahead of “No Kings” protests on Saturday.

Seeing protests ramp up across the country, Beshear said they will be monitoring situations as information comes in and coordinating resources for any area that might need it.

While recognizing people have the right to protest, he is encouraging folks to stay peaceful.

“If you’re going out to protest on Saturday, that is your right. Again, make sure it stays peaceful, and I would recommend everyone wrap it up before dark. We’ve seen in the past how other groups can come in, especially at night. In turn, what was a peaceful protest aimed at change turns into something that looks very different,” Beshear said.

Beshear said those engaging in violent acts, such as setting things on fire and looting, should be prosecuted.