Trump Finds New Ethics: Disrespect Justifies ICE Shooting
The New York Times reports that Donald Trump has added 'disrespect' as a post-hoc justification for the shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent in 2026. This expands on previous, equally vague rationales, effectively creating a legal framework where perceived defiance against armed agents is met with lethal force. (One might call it a 'stand your ground' law for government operatives). This
rhetoric normalizes state violence against individuals deemed 'disrespectful,' a chilling echo of historical narratives used to dehumanize and suppress marginalized communities. When 'disrespect' provides legal cover for shootings, how exactly does one lodge a complaint about excessive force without risking summary execution? It seems the only acceptable response to state power is absolute,
unquestioning submission.