Rempp Issues Statement Following Criticism of Public Remarks on Protests

An email sent to members of the Salina City Commission earlier this week raised concerns about the fitness for office of Salina City Commissioner Doug Rempp, citing his recent comments regarding protests, law enforcement, and civil liberties.

The email argues that Rempp’s remarks reflect attitudes the writer believes are dismissive of working-class residents and political dissent, misrepresent facts, and align with a narrow ideological faction rather than the broader Salina community. The message references two publicly available opinion pieces authored by the sender: one criticizing Rempp’s original social media comments regarding non-peaceful protests, and a second examining his response to his original statement, questioning whether it constitutes a legitimate apology. After the email was sent to commissioners, Rempp released a public statement addressing the criticism.

Below is Commissioner Rempp’s statement in its entirety, as provided:

Friends,

I will not address this again.

I strongly believe in people’s constitutional right to protest peacefully. The First Amendment protects peaceful assembly, and that is something worth defending. However, what we are seeing in Minneapolis, where protests have turned into violent confrontations and attacks on federal officers, is not peaceful protest. That escalation is dangerous for everyone involved.

ICE agents have a difficult and often thankless job. For better or worse, they are carrying out their mission under federal law. I support the idea that law enforcement should be able to perform their duties without being unlawfully obstructed or assaulted. Violence and direct attacks on officers only make an already tense situation more volatile and increase the risk of serious injury and, as we have seen, death. The goal should be de-escalation, not more chaos.

There is a clear difference between peaceful demonstrations, which are protected and important, and unlawful obstruction, intimidation, or attacks on federal personnel. Peaceful protest is a vital part of our democracy. Violence against officers is illegal and undermines the cause of those who want to be heard.

I understand the frustration people feel about what’s been happening, and I said water cannons or fire trucks might break up aggressive crowds, not because I want harm, but because I want this cycle of confrontation to stop. As far as I know , no water cannons are used in the US. Fire Trucks, yes, make it rain on them in very cold temperatures. Any response that avoids serious injury is obviously preferable to actual forceful harm.

Here in Salina, our local protests have been grassroots and peaceful, and that is exactly how they should be. I am proud of our community. What we often see on national news looks very different, frequently involving what appear to be “professional” protesters who move from one confrontation to another and escalate tensions. I believe there should be consequences for anyone who misuses government benefits while actively creating chaos and impeding law enforcement. Actions should have consequences.

This is not about infringing on anyone’s rights, and it is absolutely not about race. I want peace and safety for everyone. I am ready for the violence and lawlessness to end, and I believe we can do that without sacrificing the right to peacefully voice concerns.

In service,Commissioner Doug Rempp