Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe on Thursday declared a State of Emergency and activated the Missouri National Guard in anticipation of protests across the state.

Mayor Quinton Lucas called the action by Republican Mike Kehoe an "unnecessary escalation." He also criticized the state's lack of response when a white nationalist hate group marched through Kansas City last month.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard in anticipation of potential protests, citing unrest elsewhere. This move allows the Adjutant General to deploy troops to aid law enforcement if needed.