Texas governor declares state of disaster following violent protests

Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster for all Texas counties in the midst of violent protests that endanger public safety and threaten property loss and damage. 

Austin police officers stand on Interstate 35 and watch protesters on the frontage road. Police officers would occasionally shoot into the crowd to disperse protesters. May 30, 2020. Photo credit:  Miguel Gutierrez Jr./The Texas Tribune

Under the declaration, the governor has the ability to designate federal agents to serve as Texas peace officers. 

Abbott said he encourages all Texans to exercise their First Amendment rights, but violence and the destruction of property are unacceptable and counterproductive. 

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