Frankly, it warms my heart that you two aren't Trump supporters. Badge, I agree that Trump is no conservative. The reason I had that misimpression of you is yesterday you said that Trump saved Kenosha (as opposed to the National Guard the governor ordered after the vigilante shooting). While you may not be a Trump supporter, that sentiment shocks me. In my view (back to the Oatmeal), Trump caused Kenosha (not the police shooting, but the violence that followed it), first by his complete lack of empathy, and second by his tacit--and now explicit--support for vigilante "justice." And comparing a single, outspoken member of Congress (from a very safe seat, mind you) to the President as far as impact on the nation's mood seems like a big stretch. That's how my backfire effect brain processes your comments on this subject.
The Governor waited too long. Businesses and property are destroyed, and people are dead.
On Day 2, he called in 125 National Guard - not nearly enough. Then he doubled it on Day 3 - not nearly enough.
On Day 4, he accepted the Federal offer of 1000 US Marshalls and 500 Military Police (these numbers are not reported - only what I'm told by the security force here at the marina, and corroborated by a police officer). Too late.
He also increased the Guard to 1000 members - too late.
That's when the major violence and riots stopped. I'm going to credit the Feds on that, for sure, and also the three states who sent guardsmen to here, which included Michigan, Alabama and Minnesota.
2500 armed forces, combined with the local and county police, is how you crush riots in small cities like this one. Probably need 25000 in Portland??
In talking with two people in the know last night, that 17 year old who shot 3 (killing 2) probably has a self-defense case. His attorney thinks so too, but they always think that. Anyway, he was attacked by armed men. That much is on video. He'll still do time, no matter what, and he should. But I don't think he will be convicted of murder here. You have to be 18 to carry in Wisconsin. The gun was provided to him by the local organizer, who will also do time, as he should.
Please do not take me as a vigilante supporter. I am not - they are just as dangerous as the rioters. They should all go to jail, and not pass GO.