Governor says state preparing for protests, watching federalization lawsuit; urges peaceful conduct

During a press conference that focused largely on ferry service, Governor Ferguson addressed questions about protests, arrests and a pending federal court hearing over the federalization of the National Guard.

Asked about recent protests and reports of arrests, Ferguson said his latest information suggested no serious injuries and that multiple arrests had been made. "There were no serious injuries is my understanding," he said, adding that unlawful or violent conduct would be met with consequences.

Ferguson said the administration was closely following a Northern District of California hearing in which California has challenged the federal government's authority to federalize the National Guard without a governor's approval. "We believe the law is clear. In fact, the law actually says the governor shall approve," he said, and added that the state would watch the court's decision closely for guidance on the scope of federal action.

The governor described ongoing coordination with the National Guard, local law enforcement, mayors and the attorney general's office and said the state has been preparing legal analyses and operational briefings "for months." He said he had canceled weekend plans, would remain in the state to monitor developments, and planned another press conference the following day to provide updates.

Ferguson repeatedly urged peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights and cautioned that violence "only plays into Donald Trump's hands," saying demonstrators should stay lawful and peaceful.

The governor declined to report contact from the federal government about specific federal actions and encouraged people to seek updates at the administration's upcoming briefings.

The press conference closed after the governor answered the final questions and left for a scheduled meeting.