Greenpeace Protesters Dangle from Houston Area Bridge Ahead of Democratic Debate
There's a Democratic presidential debate in Houston tonight, and that means fun!
For example, Greenpeace activists dangling from a bridge in colorful costumes.
The demonstrators have been hanging out under the Fred Hartman Bridge in Baytown since early Thursday morning. The Houston Chronicle reports the group of 22's plan was to shut down the Houston Ship Channel in protest of big oil companies and U.S. energy policies. When I first saw footage of this trending online, I thought it was some sort of college art project. Nope. Just some peaceful protesters. (I stress the peaceful part because at least they're not trying to start a riot.)
And since they aren't being violent, police have chosen not to forcefully remove the demonstrators, but KHOU reports that they will face serious charges once they're back on solid ground.
Their activities didn't shut down automobile traffic across the bridge, but they are slowing it down and obstructing the waterway, which was obviously their plan. Authorities have had to call in additional ferries and other resources to help alleviate traffic issues.
Their other objective is to place climate change at the forefront of tonight's Democratic debate at Texas Southern University. I don't think that was ever in question, though. Climate change has been one of the major issues addressed by all the candidates.
If you're interested in tuning in to the debate, it'll be aired live on ABC affiliates at 7 PM tonight. I wonder if the demonstrators will still be hanging around by then. (Sorry, I couldn't help myself.)
What WILL be hanging around until about an hour before the debate is a 4,800-square-foot pro-Donald Trump aerial banner.
What'd I tell ya? Debate in Town = Fun.