The ANTI-ICE Protesters at Minneapolis church

Turley: Ellison Wrong on Church Protest Charges

Something happened at a Minnesota church that many see as more than a protest. Activists entered and disrupted services. The state attorney general, Keith Ellison, called it “a First Amendment activity” and suggested federal charges weren’t warranted.

George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley disagrees. He says the actions cross the line from speech into criminal conduct. He argues there are multiple violations on the table.

Turley wrote: “One would think that a mob action against a church would be something that would transcend political divisions as a grotesque and chilling act. If you thought that, you do not know Keith Ellison.”

He pressed the point that protesting outside a church is protected speech. But disrupting services and mistreating worshippers inside is conduct. That can be treated as trespass, disorderly conduct, or other offenses under state law. Turley says federal statutes could also apply.

Ellison pushed back on criticism by framing the event as a First Amendment issue. Turley rejects that framing. “He is wrong,” Turley wrote.

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