Thu Jun 12 08:20:00 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the text:**

Austin is preparing for “No Kings” protests planned for Saturday, coinciding with Donald Trump’s birthday and a military parade. The National Guard is on standby to assist DPS if needed, according to Mayor Kirk Watson. Watson supports the right to protest but warns against violence, stating it plays into the hands of those seeking to create fear and chaos. Governor Abbott has deployed the National Guard to San Antonio and warned against property damage or harming individuals during protests, promising arrests. Other leaders, like Austin Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes, have criticized the deployment as an intimidation tactic.

**Here’s the rewrite as a news article:**

**National Guard on Standby as Austin Braces for “No Kings” Protests**

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin is preparing for planned “No Kings” protests scheduled for Saturday, June 15th, coinciding with former President Donald Trump’s birthday and a military parade in Washington, D.C. Mayor Kirk Watson announced that the city has been notified that the National Guard is prepared to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) if necessary.

The protest, part of a nationwide series, is scheduled to begin at the Capitol at 5 p.m. and last until 8 p.m. Speakers include U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, state Rep. John Bucy, and attorneys Pooja Sethi and Sara Spector.

Mayor Watson emphasized his support for peaceful protest but cautioned against violence, stating it fuels a narrative of fear and chaos. “When people do that, you’re damaging your city,” Watson stated. “It doesn’t help those being targeted, and it actually gives power, or empowers, those who want more power and want to create more pain.”

Governor Greg Abbott has already deployed a contingent of National Guard troops to San Antonio, citing a commitment to law and order. “We want to make sure that what has happened in California does not happen in Texas… We will use every tool that we can to ensure order across our state,” Abbott said, warning that anyone who damages property or harms individuals will be arrested.

The deployment has drawn criticism from some local leaders. Austin Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes called it an “intimidation tactic,” stating, “We’ve seen this playbook before, military force used to threaten and silence communities demanding justice.” She urged Texans to know their rights, stay vigilant, and protect one another while exercising their constitutional right to free speech.

Local authorities are urging protesters to remain peaceful and law-abiding as the city prepares for the planned demonstrations.

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