Governor To Protesters: ‘If You Want To Be There, Get A Permit’

By

Governor Scott Walker says people should get a permit if they want to sing or rally at the State Capitol.

Walker told reporters he has not been directly involved in the decision by Capitol Police to arrest protesters for gathering without permits. But the governor stood by the policy, saying people could protest if they follow the rules.

“It’s not an unreasonable request. It’s one of those reasons why the court ultimately upheld that. It’s mainly done so that in light of what happened a couple years ago, if there are larger groups, to ensure everyone’s safety and movement. They can make sure there’s enough staff there to accommodate that. I think it’s a fairly realistic measure, and I think they’re trying to make this into something that it’s not. It’s simple. If you want to be there, get a permit.”

Stay informed on the latest news

Sign up for WPR’s email newsletter.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Teams of police handcuffed protesters at the daily Solidarity Sing Along last week, issuing more than 80 “no permit” citations in just three days. Those arrested say it’s their right to be there and they should not be required to get a permit from the very government they are protesting.