Gov. Jim Pillen allows activation of Nebraska National Guard for weekend protests

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen has opened the door to deploying the Nebraska National Guard in advance of several planned protests in Nebraska this weekend.

In an emergency proclamation issued Friday, Pillen said the protests across the state have the potential for a “significant amount of criminal behavior.”

According to Pillen, the proclamation is a precautionary measure in reaction to recent civil unrest across the country.

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Under the proclamation, Pillen said members of the Guard may be activated to help local law enforcement should demonstrations escalate, threatening people or property.

Guard members and Nebraska state troopers will be prepared to assist in any civil disturbance, and in particular, to secure the College World Series and the surrounding area.

Under normal conditions, the governor National Guard activation can take 12 to 24 hours.

Pillen said this proclamation shortens that time to ensure troops are available and standing by.

“Free speech will be respected and protected in Nebraska, but the lawlessness, chaos, and rioting seen in other cities in past weeks will not be tolerated here,” he said in a press release. “I have taken the necessary steps to ensure we have the state resources necessary to promptly respond to disorder. Any person who poses a threat to life, health, or property will be arrested. Nebraskans across the state, as well as the thousands of visitors to Omaha for the College World Series, can rest assured that the State of Nebraska and our local partners have taken the appropriate steps to ensure security and order.”

The American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska issued a statement criticizing Pillen’s proclamation:

“Gov. Pillen’s decision to activate Nebraska’s National Guard is grossly irresponsible and entirely at odds with his claim that he wants to respect free speech. There is no doubt it sends a chilling message to Nebraskans who plan to peacefully raise their voices this weekend. The right for people to come together in protest is core to our constitution and democracy. We have every expectation that Nebraskans will not let the governor’s fearmongering or provocations stop them from peacefully speaking out in defense of our communities and our rights. To those protesting this weekend, remember that we can best support our communities when we know our rights, prioritize de-escalation and look out for each other — that is especially true in the face of inflammatory actions like this.”