Tucson's Mayor Says Military Force Is 'Excessive' & Won't Call In The National Guard

People all over the country are protesting in unison over the death of George Floyd. In response to demonstrations throughout the state, Tucson Mayor Regina Romero shared insight on how the city will respond. In a tweet shared on June 2, Romero made it clear that military force is not needed at this time.

The mayor of Tucson posted the following to her Twitter page on Tuesday, writing, "At this time, I am not requesting the national guard or any military presence in the @cityoftucson."

Her post goes on to say that "[military force] is excessive, and sends the wrong message to our community."

On Monday, June 1, the Arizona Daily Star reported that hundreds of people showed up to a peaceful candlelight vigil held for George Floyd in Tucson.

Protests also occurred over the weekend, where eight people were arrested on Saturday, May 30, one of whom was accused of aggravated assault, as also reported by the Arizona Daily Star. 

Mayor Romero went on to say that "What we need is systemic reform and meaningful policy change, not militarization."

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey issued a statewide Declaration of Emergency on May 31, 2020, that set forth a week-long curfew.

His order came before what Scottsdale police describe as a riot took place at Scottsdale Fashion Square, reportedly causing millions of dollars in damages.

The curfew is in effect until Monday, June 8, from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.; however, some cities say they have no plan on enforcing it.  

The Arizona Capitol Times reported that those areas include Sierra Vista and Yuma County.

Although Tucson's mayor says calling in the military is excessive, Ducey's emergency declaration "authorizes an expanded National Guard mobilization to protect life and property throughout the state."

This means that the guard is on standby if needed by law enforcement. 

Major Aaron Thacke, with the Arizona National Guard, told FOX 10 Phoenix, "We were in a support role. We were out there to be available for law enforcement."