I share a firsthand encounter at a political rally where my family and I were threatened, how law enforcement responded, and why the outcome had nothing to do with politics, race, or identity—and everything to do with behavior, choices, and de-escalation in a high-stress situation.

This isn’t about defending force or dismissing tragedy. It’s about personal responsibility, how quickly situations can escalate, and why emotionally charged environments make already difficult jobs even harder.

You don’t have to agree with me—but I think these are conversations worth having honestly, without slogans or shouting.