Florida governor declares state of emergency before white nationalist's campus

17/10/2017 11:59

        Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency on Monday as white nationalist Richard Spencer is set to give a speech later this week at the University of Florida.
        "This executive order is an additional step to ensure that the University of Florida and the entire community is prepared so everyone can stay safe," Scott said in a statement.
        Rallies staged by neo-Nazis and white nationalists in the historic college town of Charlottesville in August led to deadly clashes that saw the death of a 32-year-old female anti-racist protester and injuries of dozens.
        Spencer, who leads a white nationalist group, participated in the incident.
        The executive order said prior speaking engagements involving Spencer, who is expected to speak at the University of Florida in Gainesville Thursday, have "sparked protests and counter-protests resulting in episodes of violence, civil unrest, and multiple arrests."
        "We have zero tolerance for violence and public safety is always our number one priority," Scott said.
        The governor said he signed the order to ensure "the county and local law enforcement have every needed resource."
        Spencer said the emergency was "flattering" but "most likely overkill," according to local newspapers.
        In a video message released this week, University of Florida President Kent Fuchs urged students to stay away and ignore Spencer's "message of hate."