Beto O’Rouke’s defense on kneeling during national anthem goes viral
Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke’s defense on NFL player’s kneeling during the national anthem has gone viral and is getting attention from different celebrities.
News organization “NowThis” posted a video, crediting Nivien Saleh, of O’Rourke answer a constituent’s question about his stance on the protest many athletes were participating in and if he found it disrespectful.
O’Rourke shortly responded “No,” and explained that the protests, like many other civil rights protests, are non-violent and are meant to point out social injustices.
He stated that the sacrifices soldiers have made are similar to those of civil rights activists.
“I can think of nothing more American,” O’Rourke said.
The four minute video has gotten over 367,000 likes and over 177,000 retweets on Twitter as of Thursday night.
Many celebrities have retweeted the video supporting O’Rourke’s answer.
El Paso singer Khalid tweeted the congressman “Love you,” after watching the video. O’Rourke responded back,”Love you too, Khalid.”
Love you too, Khalid. So proud of what you’re doing.
— Beto O’Rourke (@BetoORourke) August 23, 2018
Television host Ellen DeGeneres retweeting the post inviting O’Rouke to meet her. No word on whether they will meet in person or on her talk show.
I would like to meet you, @BetoORourke. https://t.co/rz0XAKbH5w
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) August 22, 2018
Many athletes including Lebron James are praising O’Rourke’s comments.
A Must Watch!!! ‼️ Salute @BetoORourke for the candid thoughtful words! https://t.co/E1YrbqGciZ
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 23, 2018
NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy retweeted the video urging people to watch if they wanted insight on the controversy.
If you want some insight into the National Anthem kneeling controversy, watch this. If you’ve already made up your mind that kneeling is disrespectful and facts and history won’t change your mind there’s no need to watch. https://t.co/2iUxKBTam0
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) August 22, 2018
Not everyone is happy with O’Rourke’s comments. His opponent Senator Ted Cruz disagreeing. Cruz said, “Vast majority of Texans stand for the flag, honor our veterans, and support the brace men & women of law enforcement.”
Beto raising big $$ from Hollywood by supporting NFL protests of the national anthem. But in Texas? Vast majority of Texans stand for the flag, honor our veterans, and support the brave men & women of law enforcement. People can protest without disrespecting the flag. https://t.co/edvin6ButL
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 23, 2018
The two candidates are allegedly meeting for a series of debates throughout the state of Texas. No dates have been set.
Election day is November 6.
