Climate protester vandalizes presidential plaque in Trump Tower
A climate protester caused a stir at Trump Tower in New York City on Wednesday afternoon by spray-painting “USA” over a presidential plaque inside the building. The protester, identified as 36-year-old Nathaniel Smith from Brooklyn, was promptly arrested by the New York Police Department for the act of vandalism.
Video footage captured the moment when Smith defaced the plaque before kneeling on the floor and holding up a small banner that read: “Game Over.” He was then escorted away from the scene by authorities. As he was being led out of the building, Smith was heard shouting, “This is your country. This is our country. This is our planet. You cannot ruin it without comment. They are ruining the planet for profit.”
Bystanders took photos with the defaced plaque before Smith was charged with third-degree criminal tampering and possession of a graffiti instrument. The White House has not yet commented on the incident.
The vandalism at Trump Tower came just a day after an environmental activist group targeted the famous Wall Street Charging Bull with spray paint. The same group was also responsible for vandalizing a Tesla showroom in Lower Manhattan, where two individuals were seen spray-painting messages like “F—k DOGE” and “We do not consent” on the store’s windows.
The group behind these incidents is believed to be associated with Extinction Rebellion, a climate activist group known for taking over public spaces, causing disruptions, and defacing public buildings.
The actions of these protesters have sparked controversy and condemnation, with many questioning the effectiveness of such tactics in advocating for environmental causes. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these incidents will impact the ongoing conversation around climate change and activism.
