The Daily The Showdown at Lafayette Square
Jun 4, 2020
Join Peter Baker, Chief White House correspondent for The New York Times, as he unpacks the chaotic decisions within the Trump administration during the protests at Lafayette Square. Baker details the tense atmosphere of the White House grappling with military intervention and the fallout from Trump's controversial photo op at St. John's Church. He discusses the ethical implications of using force against protesters and how these events may define the presidency in history. Explore the rift between the president and military leaders amidst the national unrest.
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Secret Plan to Visit St. John's Church
- After deciding to address the nation, Trump and a small group, including Ivanka Trump, planned a visit to St. John's Church.
- This visit, intended to be a show of strength, remained largely secret.
Clearing Lafayette Square
- Attorney General Barr ordered the clearing of peaceful protesters from Lafayette Square, enabling Trump's walk to St. John's.
- This involved using pepper spray, smoke grenades, flash grenades, and mounted police, targeting protesters and clergy.
Photo Op at St. John's Church
- Trump walked to St. John's Church, holding up a Bible provided by Ivanka, posing for photos.
- He didn't speak or read from the Bible; the image was his message.