Governor DeSantis: “We Are Not Defunding Police” After Police Remove Hecklers

Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis was interrupted by loud hecklers during a COVID-19 public briefing.

The governor was speaking specifically about drive-thru testing sites and antibody tests when the protests began:

“Most of the people that go through our drive-thru sites don’t have any symptoms. They think ‘well I’m curious, maybe I was exposed’ and then they get a PCR diagnostic test and that’s fine and that’s available. But if you’re in those situations, doing an antibody test may be a better option because if you had–”

DeSantis’ statement was cut off by “shame on you Ron DeSantis” and other such loud heckles from the back of the briefing facility.

The ranting lasted about 40 seconds before those involved were escorted out by police.

As the final protesters were leaving, DeSantis took the opportunity to thank law enforcement while speaking to a trending narrative:

“And we will not be defunding the police, so don’t worry about that. We’re going to be supporting our men and women in law enforcement.”

DeSantis has been consistently classy in his remarks towards law enforcement and conversations stemming from George Floyd’s death. In a June briefing, DeSantis recognized and thanked peaceful protestors who practice their First Amendment rights while attempting to suppress the violent demonstrations, which DeSantis described as “isolated events.”

“I also want to thank the peaceful demonstrators who have engaged in lawful first amendment activity, some of whom have helped to stymie attempts of some protesters seeking to engage in violent activity. We really appreciate their commitment to non-violence…The gatherings that have been occurring statewide there have been respectful gatherings of large crowds with isolated instances of individuals who take the opportunity to exploit these events usually at night to engage in unlawful activities.”

The governor made it clear that peaceful protesting is encouraged, but violence will not be allowed.

“Florida won’t tolerate rioting, looting or violence,”