Ashwin Lewis
The phrase get them where they sleep has sparked significant controversy and debate, particularly in the context of remarks attributed to Congresswoman Maxine Waters. In a 2018 speech at a rally, Waters urged supporters to confront Trump administration officials in public spaces, stating, If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them, and you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere. While she did not explicitly say, get them where they sleep, her call for direct confrontation has been interpreted by some as advocating for aggressive tactics, leading to widespread discussion and criticism. Waters has defended her comments as a call for peaceful protest, but the phrase remains a focal point in discussions about political rhetoric and activism.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Statement | "If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd and you push back on them, and you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere." |
| Speaker | Maxine Waters, U.S. Representative from California |
| Context | Spoken at a rally in Los Angeles on June 23, 2018, in response to the Trump administration's immigration policies, particularly family separations at the border. |
| Intent | Encouraged public confrontation and protest against Trump administration officials in public spaces. |
| Misquote | The phrase "get them where they sleep" is not part of her actual statement but has been misattributed or misinterpreted in some discussions. |
| Controversy | The statement sparked debate about the appropriateness of targeting individuals in their personal lives and potential incitement of harassment. |
| Response | Waters later clarified her remarks, stating she encouraged peaceful protests and not violence. |
| Political Impact | The comments were criticized by political opponents and led to calls for her censure, though no formal action was taken. |
| Media Coverage | Widely reported and discussed across news outlets and social media platforms. |
| Date | June 23, 2018 |
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What You'll Learn
- Context of the Statement: Waters' comments at a 2018 rally sparked controversy over perceived threats
- Media Reaction: Outlets debated whether her words incited violence or were misinterpreted
- Political Fallout: Critics accused Waters of encouraging harassment of Trump officials
- Waters' Defense: She clarified her remarks, emphasizing non-violence and constitutional rights
- Public Opinion: Divided views on whether her statement was appropriate or dangerous
Context of the Statement: Waters' comments at a 2018 rally sparked controversy over perceived threats
In June 2018, Congresswoman Maxine Waters made remarks at a rally in Los Angeles that ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate. The context of her statement was deeply rooted in the political climate of the time, marked by widespread protests against the Trump administration’s policies, particularly its approach to immigration and the separation of families at the U.S.-Mexico border. Waters, a prominent Democratic figure and vocal critic of President Trump, was addressing her supporters and urging them to take a stand against what she viewed as unjust and inhumane actions by the administration. Her comments were part of a broader call to activism, encouraging citizens to confront Trump officials in public spaces to express their outrage and demand accountability.
The specific phrase that drew the most scrutiny was Waters’ call to action: “If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them, and you tell them they’re not welcome anymore, anywhere.” While she did not explicitly say, “get them where they sleep,” her rhetoric was interpreted by critics as advocating for aggressive harassment of Trump administration officials in their personal lives. This interpretation sparked accusations that Waters was inciting violence or encouraging behavior that could escalate into physical confrontations. The controversy was further fueled by the polarized political environment, where both sides of the aisle were quick to weaponize words for political gain.
The timing of Waters’ comments was significant, as they came during a period of heightened tension over immigration policies. The Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy, which led to the separation of thousands of migrant children from their parents, had already galvanized widespread public outrage. Waters’ remarks were seen by her supporters as a necessary call to action in the face of what they perceived as moral and political crisis. However, critics, including President Trump himself, characterized her words as dangerous and divisive, claiming they endangered public officials and their families. Trump responded by accusing Waters of “encouraging violence” and calling her comments “a very bad thing.”
The backlash against Waters’ statement was swift and intense. Republican leaders and conservative media outlets amplified the controversy, portraying her words as a direct threat to public safety and civility. Some even suggested that her remarks could lead to physical harm against Trump officials. In response, Waters defended her position, clarifying that she was advocating for peaceful protest and civil disobedience, not violence. She emphasized that her comments were made in the context of resisting policies she believed were harmful to the nation, particularly marginalized communities. Despite her clarifications, the controversy persisted, highlighting the challenges of navigating political rhetoric in an era of extreme polarization.
The broader context of Waters’ statement also reflects her long-standing reputation as a fiery and unapologetic advocate for progressive causes. Known for her confrontational style, Waters has frequently clashed with Republican leaders and has been a vocal critic of systemic injustices. Her 2018 remarks were consistent with her history of urging direct action against what she perceives as oppressive policies. However, the intense reaction to her words underscored the risks of such rhetoric in a politically charged atmosphere, where even ambiguous statements can be misinterpreted or exploited for political purposes. The controversy ultimately became a symbol of the deepening divide in American politics, where calls for resistance and accountability are often met with accusations of extremism.
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Media Reaction: Outlets debated whether her words incited violence or were misinterpreted
The statement attributed to Congresswoman Maxine Waters, "get them where they sleep," sparked intense media scrutiny and debate, with outlets grappling to interpret her words and their implications. Some media sources framed her remarks as a call to action, suggesting that Waters was encouraging confrontational tactics against political opponents. Fox News, for instance, characterized her words as "incendiary" and argued that they crossed the line into inciting violence. The network’s commentators emphasized the potential for her rhetoric to escalate tensions in an already polarized political climate, drawing parallels to historical instances where heated language led to real-world conflict.
On the other hand, more progressive outlets, such as MSNBC and *The Huffington Post*, defended Waters, asserting that her words were taken out of context and misinterpreted. These sources highlighted her broader message of holding elected officials accountable for their actions, particularly in response to issues like police brutality and racial injustice. They argued that Waters was advocating for persistent, nonviolent confrontation through protests and public pressure, rather than physical harm. *The Washington Post* published an analysis piece suggesting that the phrase "get them where they sleep" was metaphorical, urging constituents to challenge officials in their personal spaces—such as town halls or public appearances—rather than their literal homes.
Conservative media, however, remained critical, with *The Daily Caller* and *Breitbart* accusing Waters of irresponsibly fueling division. They pointed to her history of controversial statements and claimed that her rhetoric emboldened radical elements within the activist community. These outlets often juxtaposed her words with instances of political violence, implying a causal link. In contrast, *CNN* took a more balanced approach, hosting debates between analysts who argued both sides of the issue. While some CNN contributors condemned Waters’ language as reckless, others stressed the importance of understanding her remarks within the context of systemic frustration and the fight for civil rights.
International media also weighed in, with *The Guardian* offering a nuanced perspective that acknowledged the emotional charge of Waters’ words while cautioning against oversimplifying her intent. The British outlet noted that the U.S. political landscape’s hyper-polarization made such statements particularly volatile, regardless of their intended meaning. Meanwhile, social media platforms became battlegrounds for public interpretation, with hashtags like #MaxineWaters trending as users debated whether her words were a rallying cry for justice or a dangerous provocation.
Ultimately, the media reaction underscored the broader challenge of interpreting political rhetoric in an era of deep ideological divides. While some outlets condemned Waters for allegedly inciting violence, others championed her as a voice for marginalized communities. The debate reflected not only differing journalistic perspectives but also the complexities of language and intent in politically charged environments. Waters herself later clarified her remarks, stating that she encouraged peaceful confrontation and constitutional methods of dissent, but the media discourse continued to shape public perception of her role and influence.
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Political Fallout: Critics accused Waters of encouraging harassment of Trump officials
The controversy surrounding Representative Maxine Waters' remarks at a rally in Los Angeles in June 2018 sparked significant political fallout, with critics accusing her of inciting harassment against Trump administration officials. Waters, a prominent Democratic congresswoman from California, had urged her supporters to confront Trump officials in public spaces, stating, "If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them, and you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere." While she did not explicitly say, "get them where they sleep," her call to action was widely interpreted as encouraging aggressive confrontation, leading to a wave of criticism from Republicans and some moderate Democrats.
The political fallout was immediate and intense, with many critics arguing that Waters' comments crossed a line and endangered public officials. Republican leaders, including President Trump himself, swiftly condemned her remarks, labeling them as dangerous and divisive. Trump tweeted that Waters was "an extraordinarily low IQ person" and accused her of encouraging violence. House Speaker Paul Ryan also weighed in, stating that Waters' comments were "completely inappropriate" and urging civility in political discourse. The backlash extended beyond verbal condemnations, as some Trump supporters called for Waters to resign or face censure, while others accused her of hypocrisy, given her previous calls for respectful dialogue.
Waters' remarks also created divisions within her own party, as some Democrats distanced themselves from her statements. While many progressive activists rallied behind her, moderate Democrats feared that her comments would alienate swing voters and undermine the party's efforts to present a unified front against the Trump administration. Prominent Democrats like Nancy Pelosi initially defended Waters' right to free speech but later clarified that they did not endorse her tactics. This internal rift highlighted the broader challenge for the Democratic Party in balancing the demands of its progressive base with the need to appeal to a broader electorate.
The controversy had tangible consequences for Waters, as she faced increased security concerns and personal threats in the wake of her comments. The Capitol Police and local law enforcement agencies heightened their vigilance around her, reflecting the seriousness of the backlash. Additionally, the incident became a rallying point for conservative media outlets, which used it to portray Democrats as intolerant and extreme. This narrative was amplified during the 2018 midterm elections, where Republican candidates sought to tie their Democratic opponents to Waters' remarks, framing them as part of a broader pattern of leftist radicalism.
Despite the criticism, Waters remained defiant, arguing that her comments were a necessary response to the Trump administration's policies, particularly its family separation policy at the border. She framed her call to action as a form of peaceful protest and civil disobedience, drawing parallels to the civil rights movement. Waters also accused her critics of distorting her words and ignoring the context of her remarks. Her supporters echoed this defense, emphasizing that she had not advocated violence but rather urged constituents to hold public officials accountable for their actions.
In the end, the political fallout from Waters' comments underscored the deep polarization in American politics and the challenges of navigating contentious public discourse. While her remarks galvanized her base, they also provided ammunition for her opponents and complicated the Democratic Party's messaging. The episode served as a cautionary tale about the power of words in politics and the potential consequences of calls to action, even when intended to mobilize opposition to perceived injustices. Waters' legacy in this context remains complex, reflecting both her role as a fiery advocate for progressive causes and the risks of rhetoric that can be interpreted as encouraging harassment or confrontation.
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Waters' Defense: She clarified her remarks, emphasizing non-violence and constitutional rights
In response to the controversy surrounding her comments, Maxine Waters issued a clarification, emphasizing that her remarks were taken out of context and misconstrued. She explained that her statement, "get them where they sleep," was not a call for physical harm or violence but rather a metaphorical expression urging constituents to hold their elected officials accountable in public spaces. Waters stressed that her intent was to encourage peaceful confrontation and civic engagement, particularly in the wake of social and racial injustices that had sparked nationwide protests.
Waters Defense hinges on her unwavering commitment to non-violence as a principle. She highlighted her long-standing history as a civil rights advocate, emphasizing that her activism has always been rooted in peaceful protest and adherence to the law. By clarifying her stance, Waters sought to dispel any notion that she was inciting violence, instead framing her words as a call to action within the bounds of constitutional rights. She reminded the public that the First Amendment protects the right to free speech and assembly, which includes the ability to confront public officials in non-violent ways.
Furthermore, Waters underscored the importance of context in understanding her remarks. She noted that her comments were made during a period of heightened tension and frustration over police brutality and systemic racism. Her goal, she explained, was to empower marginalized communities to use their voices and demand accountability from those in power. Waters argued that her words were not a threat but a reflection of the urgency felt by many Americans seeking justice and reform. She called on critics to consider the broader societal issues that prompted her statement rather than isolating it from its context.
In her defense, Waters also pointed to the constitutional framework that supports her position. She asserted that encouraging constituents to approach officials in public spaces, such as restaurants or town halls, is a protected form of political expression. This, she argued, aligns with the democratic tradition of holding leaders accountable for their actions. Waters emphasized that her remarks were consistent with the principles of civil disobedience, a tactic long used in American history to challenge injustice without resorting to violence. She urged detractors to distinguish between aggressive rhetoric and the legitimate exercise of constitutional rights.
Lastly, Waters expressed concern that her words were being weaponized to distract from the underlying issues she sought to address. She accused political opponents of exploiting the controversy to shift focus away from the need for police reform and racial equity. By clarifying her remarks, Waters aimed to reclaim the narrative and redirect attention to the systemic problems facing the nation. She concluded by reaffirming her dedication to non-violent advocacy and her belief in the power of grassroots activism to drive meaningful change, all while operating within the protections afforded by the Constitution.
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Public Opinion: Divided views on whether her statement was appropriate or dangerous
Maxine Waters' statement, "If you see anybody from [the Trump administration] in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them, and you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere," has sparked intense public debate. While some interpret her words as a call to peaceful protest and civic engagement, others view it as dangerous incitement. The phrase "get them where they sleep" is often misattributed to her, but her actual remarks still resonate as a rallying cry for direct confrontation. Supporters argue that her statement was appropriate, framing it as a necessary response to the Trump administration's controversial policies, particularly regarding immigration and racial justice. They contend that public officials should not be shielded from accountability in their personal lives, especially when their actions harm marginalized communities. This perspective aligns with a broader tradition of civil disobedience and activism, where public pressure is seen as a legitimate tool for change.
On the other hand, critics label Waters' statement as reckless and divisive, warning that it could escalate tensions and lead to violence. They argue that encouraging people to confront political opponents in public spaces crosses a line, potentially endangering both the targeted individuals and the protesters themselves. This view emphasizes the importance of maintaining civility and respect in political discourse, even when disagreements run deep. Critics also point out that such rhetoric could embolden extremists on both sides, creating a volatile environment where physical altercations become more likely. The misattribution of the phrase "get them where they sleep" further complicates the debate, as it conjures images of intimidation and harassment, even if it was not part of her original remarks.
A third perspective emerges from those who acknowledge the validity of Waters' frustration but question the effectiveness of her approach. These individuals argue that while public officials should be held accountable, targeting them in personal spaces may alienate moderate voters and undermine the credibility of progressive causes. They suggest that energy would be better directed toward organized, structured activism, such as voter registration drives, policy advocacy, and legal challenges. This viewpoint seeks to balance the urgency of addressing injustice with the need for strategic, sustainable action. It also highlights the risk of Waters' statement being used as a political weapon by opponents to discredit the left as a whole.
Public opinion is further polarized along partisan lines, with Democrats more likely to defend Waters' statement as justified resistance and Republicans denouncing it as a threat to public order. Independents and centrists often find themselves caught in the middle, weighing the principles of free speech and accountability against concerns about safety and decorum. Social media has amplified these divisions, with hashtags and viral clips spreading both support for and condemnation of Waters' remarks. The lack of consensus reflects broader societal tensions over the boundaries of political expression and the role of public confrontation in effecting change.
Ultimately, the debate over Maxine Waters' statement reveals deep-seated disagreements about the nature of democracy and the limits of dissent. For some, her words represent a bold stand against oppression, while for others, they symbolize a dangerous erosion of norms. As the conversation continues, it underscores the challenge of navigating a political landscape where passions run high and common ground seems increasingly elusive. Whether her statement is deemed appropriate or dangerous may depend less on its literal meaning and more on one's underlying beliefs about power, justice, and the role of citizens in holding their leaders accountable.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Maxine Waters made a controversial statement in 2018 during a rally, where she encouraged supporters to confront Trump administration officials, saying, "If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them, and you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere." While she did not explicitly say "get them where they sleep," her remarks were interpreted by some as advocating aggressive confrontation.
The remark was made in response to the Trump administration's family separation policy at the U.S.-Mexico border. Waters was expressing outrage and urging her supporters to take a stand against administration officials. However, the phrase "get them where they sleep" was not directly part of her speech but was later attributed to her by critics and media outlets as a shorthand for her call to action.
Yes, Maxine Waters faced significant criticism from both Republicans and some Democrats for her remarks. Critics argued that her words could incite violence or harassment against government officials. Waters defended her comments, stating that she was advocating for peaceful protest and civil disobedience, not physical harm. The controversy led to calls for her to resign or be censured, though no formal action was taken.
