Democrat California Gov. Gavin Newsom canceled a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the state capitol on Tuesday due to pro-Palestinian protests.
Newsom made the move for fear of the safety of children and families that would be present at the ceremony. Last month, for instance, a cadre of pro-Palestinian protesters overwhelmed security at the California Democratic Convention. Pro-Palestinian groups had planned to descend on the tree lighting ceremony in the same way they did the Rockefeller Center ceremony in New York City last week.
A spokesperson for the governor said that Newsom will hold a virtual ceremony and distribute a pre-recorded version on Wednesday.
“As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales — and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families — the ceremony this year will be virtual,” the spokesperson said.
Politico reported that the California Highway Patrol, “which oversees Capitol security, confirmed the cancellation to but did not give a reason, referring questions to the governor’s office.”
“Once the governor’s event had been…
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