The remarks drew criticism from the ACLU of Florida. Gov. Ron DeSantis said the state has drawn a clear line between protesting and rioting.

Florida officials caution against violent behavior during upcoming anti-Trump "No Kings" protests, with Sheriff Ivey warning that attacks on deputies will be met with lethal force

Hundreds of chanting protesters, carrying signs with phrases like "Defend Democracy" and "No Kings since 1776," are rallying across South Florida Saturday, joining nationwide protests against Trump administration policies.

The marchers halted before Palm Beach County sheriffs deputies in shields and helmets at the end of the bridge.

Ahead of protests across Florida this weekend, Gov. Ron DeSantis made clear that he sided with law enforcement over any protesters who become violent against people or property. A law passed in 2021 generally toughens the state’s criminal treatment of protests — but it does not mean drivers can run over protesters without consequences.

“When I grew up, I paid attention in social studies,” Fabiano said, recounting how, as a child, he was moved by the stories of Holocaust survivors he grew up around in New York. “I see the same thing happening in my country in 2025,” he added.

A rumor that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said drivers are allowed to run over protesters with their cars if they feel threatened spread in June 2025 as debate raged over nationwide protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids at the behest of President Donald Trump's administration.

Law enforcement reminded the state's residents that Florida is not California and threatened arrest and even death for protesters who become violent.