Red states are preparing for something big.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe (R) has declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard in a bold and proactive move to keep law and order in place as nationwide unrest intensifies in response to President Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts.
Citing a need to support local law enforcement and protect public safety, Executive Order 25-25 empowers the Missouri National Guard to assist in any area of the state where civil unrest or potential violence may arise.
“We will always defend peaceful protest,” said Gov. Kehoe. “But we will not allow our communities to fall victim to lawlessness or violent riots.”
Missouri’s swift action comes amid growing demonstrations across the U.S. over President Trump’s renewed crackdown on illegal immigration and his aggressive efforts to secure the southern border. In stark contrast to Democrat-led states that have allowed chaos to unfold, Missouri is taking a firm, no-nonsense approach to public safety.
Conservatives Applaud Swift Action to Protect Families and Businesses
State leaders and law-abiding citizens are praising Governor Kehoe’s leadership. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey stated, “We will not allow what is happening in cities like Los Angeles to happen in Missouri. We stand with our law enforcement officers and our communities.”
Congressman Mark Alford (R-Mo.) echoed that sentiment, posting, “Peaceful demonstration is a constitutional right. But violence, looting, and riots will not be tolerated in the Show Me State.”
As President Trump continues to restore border security and reassert law and order nationwide, red states like Missouri are following his lead — ensuring that American families, small businesses, and law enforcement officers remain safe.
Left-Wing Figures Slam Kehoe for “Suppressing Protest”
Unsurprisingly, liberal officials and activist groups were quick to criticize Kehoe’s decision. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas released a statement accusing the governor of unfairly targeting one group of protesters, while remaining silent on past extremist marches. His office failed to acknowledge the violent nature of current anti-Trump demonstrations.
Missouri House Minority Leader Ashley Aune (D) claimed the move was meant to “suppress First Amendment rights,” while the ACLU labeled it “an unnecessary provocation.” These criticisms ignore the increasing volatility seen in other states and the need for preparedness to prevent widespread disruption.
“Governor Kehoe is standing up for public safety. The left is standing up for chaos,” said one local business owner in St. Louis.
Nationwide Turmoil Over Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Spreads
Thousands of National Guard troops and U.S. Marines have been deployed to cities like Los Angeles on President Trump’s order following violent protests in response to federal immigration enforcement. California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused the President of “overreaching,” even as cities enforce curfews and businesses close due to rising violence.
In response, left-wing organizers have announced nationwide “No Kings” protests this weekend, coinciding with President Trump’s planned military parade in Washington, D.C.
In Kansas City, a rally is scheduled at the Country Club Plaza, while Texas has also activated thousands of National Guard members to ensure peace and order.
Law and Order vs. Mob Rule
As President Trump’s administration continues to enforce immigration laws and defend the southern border, Missouri is demonstrating what responsible governance looks like. By taking immediate action, Governor Kehoe is standing with law enforcement, defending constitutional rights, and protecting families from the kind of dangerous unrest seen elsewhere.
Red states are standing tall while blue states crumble under the weight of their own inaction.