skynewsus--2020-06-02--#BlackoutTuesday: Millions make stand against racism and turn internet black

Millions of people have turned the internet black for # BlackoutTuesday , a huge social media protest sparked following the death of George Floyd .
Rihanna , Jamie Foxx , Drake , Nile Rodgers and music mogul Quincy Jones are among the stars joining in .
As record companies including Sony Music , Atlantic Records , Capitol Music Group , Warner Records and Def Jam vowed that # TheShowMustBePaused , people all over the world have posted black squares on their Instagram accounts in solidarity .
Radio stations and other companies have also pledged social media blackouts for the day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Foo Fighters , Katy Perry and Britney Spears are supporting the movement , while in the UK musicians including Radiohead , Tim Burgess and Mumford & Sons , as well as Glastonbury Festival and high profile figures such as football star Gary Lineker , are also taking part .
Mr Floyd , who was African-American , died in Minneapolis last week .
A white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for several minutes during an arrest for allegedly using a fake $ 20 note .
As protests have taken place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be gripped by unrest in the wake of the 46-year-old 's death , the # BlackoutTuesday initiative calls for business to be suspended for a day .
Organisers say they want a `` a day to disconnect from work and reconnect with our community '' through `` an urgent step of action to provoke accountability and change '' .
Posting a black square on her Instagram page , Rihanna said her brand , Fenty , would not be `` selling sh*t '' on Tuesday .
Foxx , who has joined protests in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hashtags `` # blackouttuesday # blacklivesmatter # justiceforgeorgefloyd '' .
Revered producer Jones wrote : `` It 's hard to know what to say because I 've been dealing with racism my entire life .
That said , its rearing its ugly head right now & by God it 's time to deal with it once & for all .
`` As gatekeepers of the culture , it 's our responsibility to not only come together to celebrate the wins , but also hold each other up during a loss . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a day off '' but a chance to `` figure out ways to move forward in solidarity '' .
Apple presenter Zane Lowe said he would not be presenting his radio show , saying instead he would be `` listening , learning and looking for solutions to fight racial inequality '' .
And British singer-songwriter Gabriel tweeted about Mr Floyd 's death , saying : `` This type of brutality needs to be confronted directly , with justice clearly seen to be done whenever & wherever it occurs . ''
Demonstrations have broken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Mr Floyd 's death and other allegations of police brutality against people of colour .
Police have clashed with protesters in cities including New York , Los Angeles and Minneapolis , while Donald Trump has threatened to deploy the country 's military unless state authorities stop ongoing demonstrations .

Millions of people have turned the internet black for #BlackoutTuesday, a huge social media protest sparked following the death of George Floyd.
Rihanna, Jamie Foxx, Drake, Nile Rodgers and music mogul Quincy Jones are among the stars joining in.
As record companies including Sony Music, Atlantic Records, Capitol Music Group, Warner Records and Def Jam vowed that #TheShowMustBePaused, people all over the world have posted black squares on their Instagram accounts in solidarity.
Image: Protests are continuing following the death of George Floyd
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Radio stations and other companies have also pledged social media blackouts for the day.
In the US, acts including the Foo Fighters, Katy Perry and Britney Spears are supporting the movement, while in the UK musicians including Radiohead, Tim Burgess and Mumford & Sons, as well as Glastonbury Festival and high profile figures such as football star Gary Lineker, are also taking part.
Mr Floyd, who was African-American, died in Minneapolis last week. A white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for several minutes during an arrest for allegedly using a fake $20 note.
Image: Demonstrations have taken place all over the world
As protests have taken place around the world and the US continues to be gripped by unrest in the wake of the 46-year-old's death, the #BlackoutTuesday initiative calls for business to be suspended for a day.
Organisers say they want a "a day to disconnect from work and reconnect with our community" through "an urgent step of action to provoke accountability and change".
Posting a black square on her Instagram page, Rihanna said her brand, Fenty, would not be "selling sh*t" on Tuesday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:22 Actor Jamie Foxx joins protests
Foxx, who has joined protests in San Francisco, captioned his post with the hashtags "#blackouttuesday #blacklivesmatter #justiceforgeorgefloyd".
Revered producer Jones wrote: "It's hard to know what to say because I've been dealing with racism my entire life. That said, its rearing its ugly head right now & by God it's time to deal with it once & for all.
"As gatekeepers of the culture, it's our responsibility to not only come together to celebrate the wins, but also hold each other up during a loss."
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Columbia Records said Tuesday "was not a day off" but a chance to "figure out ways to move forward in solidarity".
Apple presenter Zane Lowe said he would not be presenting his radio show, saying instead he would be "listening, learning and looking for solutions to fight racial inequality".
And British singer-songwriter Gabriel tweeted about Mr Floyd's death, saying: "This type of brutality needs to be confronted directly, with justice clearly seen to be done whenever & wherever it occurs."
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Demonstrations have broken out across the US in the wake of Mr Floyd's death and other allegations of police brutality against people of colour.
Police have clashed with protesters in cities including New York, Los Angeles and Minneapolis, while Donald Trump has threatened to deploy the country's military unless state authorities stop ongoing demonstrations.


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Bishop 'outraged' by Trump's photo- p outside church

The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington has said she is `` outraged '' after police officers used tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters from her churchyard for Donald Trump to stage a photo op outside holding a Bible .
The US president walked from the White House to St John 's Episcopal Church , and holding aloft the religious text , he said : `` We have the greatest country in the world .
We 're going to keep it safe . ''
It followed days of nationwide protests - some of which have turned violent and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being shot at - over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis .
Reverend Mariann Budde , whose diocese St. John 's belongs to , said she was given no warning about Mr Trump 's visit on Monday , and no permission was sought for the photo opportunity .
The bishop told MSNBC the president was `` preceded by a violent clearing of non-violent protesters '' .
`` He was using our church as the backdrop and the Bible as a prop in ways that I found to be deeply offensive '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ president used the opportunity to share `` a message antithetical to the teachings of Jesus and everything that our churches stand for '' .
`` He sanctioned the use of tear gas by police officers in riot gear to clear the churchyard .
I am outraged , '' she told CNN .
`` The president did not pray when he came to St John 's ... nor did he acknowledge the agony of our country right now , and in particular , that of the people of colour in our nation , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public power will ever acknowledge their sacred words .
And who are rightfully demanding an end to 400 years of systemic racism and white supremacy in our country .
`` And I just want the world to know , that we in the diocese of Washington ... we distance ourselves from the incendiary language of this president . ''
She added : `` We align ourselves with those seeking justice for the death of George Floyd and countless others .
`` And I just ca n't believe what my eyes have seen .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone calls , messages and emails from people across the country angered by the president 's actions .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Known as The Church of the Presidents , St John 's suffered fire damage in a protest on Sunday .
The bishop said in a statement `` our suffering was minimal '' .
`` We can replace the furnishings of a nursery , '' she said , adding : `` We ca n't bring a man 's life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Episcopal Church , Michael Curry , issued his own statement accusing Mr Trump of using St John 's and the Bible for `` partisan political purposes '' .
Mr Floyd , aged 46 , died after a police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for almost nine minutes during his arrest for allegedly using a fake $ 20 note in a shop , despite him warning that he could not breathe .
Earlier , the family of Mr Floyd urged people to go out and vote rather than turn to violence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his brother , Terrence Floyd told a crowd at a makeshift memorial in Minneapolis that the demonstrations of the past few days across America `` will not bring my brother back '' .
And he pleaded : `` Stop thinking your voice do n't matter , and vote . ''
The plea came just hours before a medical examiner 's report classified Mr Floyd 's death as homicide , saying : `` Decedent experienced a cardiopulmonary arrest while being restrained by law enforcement officers . ''
Its release followed a post-mortem commissioned by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Floyd died of asphyxiation due to neck and back compression .
While held down by Derek Chauvin , who has been sacked and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter over the incident , Mr Floyd repeatedly told the police officer : `` I ca n't breathe . ''

The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington has said she is "outraged" after police officers used tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters from her churchyard for Donald Trump to stage a photo op outside holding a Bible.
The US president walked from the White House to St John's Episcopal Church, and holding aloft the religious text, he said: "We have the greatest country in the world. We're going to keep it safe."
It followed days of nationwide protests - some of which have turned violent and have involved rioting, looting and police officers being shot at - over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:28 Total chaos outside White House
Reverend Mariann Budde, whose diocese St. John's belongs to, said she was given no warning about Mr Trump's visit on Monday, and no permission was sought for the photo opportunity.
The bishop told MSNBC the president was "preceded by a violent clearing of non-violent protesters".
"He was using our church as the backdrop and the Bible as a prop in ways that I found to be deeply offensive".
In a separate interview she said the president used the opportunity to share "a message antithetical to the teachings of Jesus and everything that our churches stand for".
"He sanctioned the use of tear gas by police officers in riot gear to clear the churchyard. I am outraged," she told CNN.
"The president did not pray when he came to St John's... nor did he acknowledge the agony of our country right now, and in particular, that of the people of colour in our nation, who wonder if anyone ever - anyone in public power will ever acknowledge their sacred words. And who are rightfully demanding an end to 400 years of systemic racism and white supremacy in our country.
Advertisement
"And I just want the world to know, that we in the diocese of Washington... we distance ourselves from the incendiary language of this president."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 Police fire tear gas at protesters
She added: "We align ourselves with those seeking justice for the death of George Floyd and countless others.
"And I just can't believe what my eyes have seen."
She said she has been fielding phone calls, messages and emails from people across the country angered by the president's actions.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Known as The Church of the Presidents, St John's suffered fire damage in a protest on Sunday.
The bishop said in a statement "our suffering was minimal". "We can replace the furnishings of a nursery," she said, adding: "We can't bring a man's life back."
The presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, Michael Curry, issued his own statement accusing Mr Trump of using St John's and the Bible for "partisan political purposes".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Rioters use construction equipment to loot stores
Mr Floyd, aged 46, died after a police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for almost nine minutes during his arrest for allegedly using a fake $20 note in a shop, despite him warning that he could not breathe.
Earlier, the family of Mr Floyd urged people to go out and vote rather than turn to violence over his death.
Demanding justice for his brother, Terrence Floyd told a crowd at a makeshift memorial in Minneapolis that the demonstrations of the past few days across America "will not bring my brother back".
And he pleaded: "Stop thinking your voice don't matter, and vote."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 Floyd brother: I'm not blowing up stuff, why are you?
The plea came just hours before a medical examiner's report classified Mr Floyd's death as homicide, saying: "Decedent experienced a cardiopulmonary arrest while being restrained by law enforcement officers."
Its release followed a post-mortem commissioned by the family, which found that Mr Floyd died of asphyxiation due to neck and back compression.
While held down by Derek Chauvin, who has been sacked and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter over the incident, Mr Floyd repeatedly told the police officer: "I can't breathe."


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Brothers, six and seven, die after crashing grandparents' car into tree

Two brothers aged six and seven have died after the older child got behind the wheel of a car at their grandparents ' home and crashed into a tree .
The seven-year-old , with his sibling in one of the passenger seats , drove the vehicle through a field and then on to a country road - travelling east - near Kansas City , Missouri .
The Missouri Highway Patrol said in its report that the 2007 Buick LaCrosse hit a road barrier and a guy-wire ( a tensioned cable used to support a free-stranding structure ) , before overturning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle landed on its roof and caught fire , and the brothers - whose identities have not been released - were pronounced dead at the scene .
Sergeant Andy Bell , from the highway patrol , said : `` It 's pretty unique , to say the least , and devastating . ''
He added that speed `` had to have been a contributing factor '' for the car to have flipped in the way that it did , but an investigation into the incident is still ongoing .
The highway patrol and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking into what happened and how the boys came into possession of the vehicle .
The area where the crash happened , east of Kansas City , is not covered by a local authority .

Two brothers aged six and seven have died after the older child got behind the wheel of a car at their grandparents' home and crashed into a tree.
The seven-year-old, with his sibling in one of the passenger seats, drove the vehicle through a field and then on to a country road - travelling east - near Kansas City, Missouri.
The Missouri Highway Patrol said in its report that the 2007 Buick LaCrosse hit a road barrier and a guy-wire (a tensioned cable used to support a free-stranding structure), before overturning and crashing into a tree.
The vehicle landed on its roof and caught fire, and the brothers - whose identities have not been released - were pronounced dead at the scene.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Sergeant Andy Bell, from the highway patrol, said: "It's pretty unique, to say the least, and devastating."
He added that speed "had to have been a contributing factor" for the car to have flipped in the way that it did, but an investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
The highway patrol and the Jackson County Sheriff's Department are looking into what happened and how the boys came into possession of the vehicle.
The area where the crash happened, east of Kansas City, is not covered by a local authority.


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Can Donald Trump deploy the military on US soil?

Donald Trump has threatened to use the military to stop violent protests that have broken out across the United States .
The protests were sparked by the death of George Floyd after a police officer kneeled on his neck for almost nine minutes during his arrest for allegedly using a fake $ 20 note .
The majority of demonstrations have been peaceful , but some have become violent , leading the president to say he would send in the military unless states deployed the National Guard .
The president 's threat is controversial because the US military is generally not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Here is how the system works in the United States .
Who is in charge of the US armed forces ?
The president is the USA 's commander in chief and has the power to deploy the US military as he wishes abroad .
He can make military decisions without Congress , although he needs their approval or a declaration of war for any military action lasting longer than 60 days .
However the US military is generally banned from performing law enforcement functions on US soil .
So can Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Insurrection Act of 1807 provides a way in which Donald Trump could still deploy troops .
The act allows the president to use the military to respond to `` insurrection , domestic violence , unlawful combination , or conspiracy '' inside the United States However , depending on the circumstances , action can only be taken at the request of a state governor or legislature .
This means if President Trump did deploy the army in a state without its governor 's approval , it could be illegal .
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Has this been done before ?
The last time the Insurrection Act was used was in 1992 by George H. W. Bush .
On that occasion it was used to allow the military to respond to riots in Los Angeles after a jury found four police officers not guilty of the beating of Rodney King .
How is the National Guard different ?
The National Guard is a reserve military force that , unlike the permenant armed forces , is often called on to act in domestic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is made up of reserve members from both the United States Army and the United States Air Force .
Each of the 50 states has its own National Guard unit , as do the four territories of Guam , the Virgin Islands , Puerto Rico , and the District of Columbia .
The majority of National Guard members hold a civilian job as well as serving as reservists , in the same way members of the Territorial Army do in the UK .
The National Guard is controlled by both the state governors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often deploy their National Guard unit to help during domestic emergencies and natural disasters , such as wildfires , hurricanes and floods .
The US president also has the authority to mobilise the National Guard without going through state governors and to deploy them abroad .
Has the National Guard been used this time ?
National Guard units have so far been deployed in 23 states across the United States as well as in Washington D.C. in response to the protests .
Around 17,000 members of the National Guard are currently supporting local @ @ @ @ @ @

Donald Trump has threatened to use the military to stop violent protests that have broken out across the United States.
The protests were sparked by the death of George Floyd after a police officer kneeled on his neck for almost nine minutes during his arrest for allegedly using a fake $20 note.
The majority of demonstrations have been peaceful, but some have become violent, leading the president to say he would send in the military unless states deployed the National Guard.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 US President Donald Trump says he's sending in the troops
The president's threat is controversial because the US military is generally not allowed to undertake action on US soil.
Here is how the system works in the United States.
Who is in charge of the US armed forces?
The president is the USA's commander in chief and has the power to deploy the US military as he wishes abroad.
He can make military decisions without Congress, although he needs their approval or a declaration of war for any military action lasting longer than 60 days.
However the US military is generally banned from performing law enforcement functions on US soil.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 George Floyd's brother appeals to protesters to stop rioting and focus on voting.
So can Donald Trump deploy the US army domestically?
The Insurrection Act of 1807 provides a way in which Donald Trump could still deploy troops.
The act allows the president to use the military to respond to "insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy" inside the United States
However, depending on the circumstances, action can only be taken at the request of a state governor or legislature.
This means if President Trump did deploy the army in a state without its governor's approval, it could be illegal.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Has this been done before?
The last time the Insurrection Act was used was in 1992 by George H. W. Bush.
On that occasion it was used to allow the military to respond to riots in Los Angeles after a jury found four police officers not guilty of the beating of Rodney King.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:04 Joe Biden says Donald Trump is 'part of the problem' when it comes to divisions in the US
How is the National Guard different?
The National Guard is a reserve military force that, unlike the permenant armed forces, is often called on to act in domestic emergencies in the United States.
It is made up of reserve members from both the United States Army and the United States Air Force.
Each of the 50 states has its own National Guard unit, as do the four territories of Guam, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.
The majority of National Guard members hold a civilian job as well as serving as reservists, in the same way members of the Territorial Army do in the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:20 Clashes between protesters and officers turn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
Who controls the National Guard?
The National Guard is controlled by both the state governors and the US president.
State governors often deploy their National Guard unit to help during domestic emergencies and natural disasters, such as wildfires, hurricanes and floods.
The US president also has the authority to mobilise the National Guard without going through state governors and to deploy them abroad.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 Police in America's capital used tear gas to clear streets around the White House.
Has the National Guard been used this time?
National Guard units have so far been deployed in 23 states across the United States as well as in Washington D.C. in response to the protests.
Around 17,000 members of the National Guard are currently supporting local law enforcement with the protests.


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Lea Michele accused of making Glee co-star's life 'living hell'

Lea Michele has been accused of making a former Glee co-star 's experience on the show a `` living hell '' .
Actress Samantha Ware , who starred as Jane Hayward in the US musical comedy-drama , said Michele threatened to `` s*** in her wig '' and made her `` question a career in Hollywood '' .
She made the allegations after Michele voiced her support for the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of George Floyd - a 46-year-old black American man who died after a white police officer kneeled on his neck for several minutes during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` George Floyd did not deserve this , '' Michele tweeted .
`` This was not an isolated incident and it must end . ''
Ware retweeted the post and told fans about her behind-the-scenes experiences with the actress .
Ware , 28 , wrote : `` Remember when you made my first television gig a living hell ?
!
?
!
... `` Cause I 'll never forget ...
I believe you told everyone that if you had the opportunity you would 's*** in my wig ! '
amongst other traumatic microaggressions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hollywood . ''
Michele , who is pregnant with her first child with her husband , businessman Zandy Reich , 37 , has not responded to Ware 's accusations .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Michele , 33 , played the role of Rachel Berry for six seasons of the Fox series , and was nominated for an Emmy , two Golden Globes and three Grammy awards for the part .
Ware , who appeared in the sixth season of Glee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shows including What/If , Chicago Med , and God Friended Me .

Lea Michele has been accused of making a former Glee co-star's experience on the show a "living hell".
Actress Samantha Ware, who starred as Jane Hayward in the US musical comedy-drama, said Michele threatened to "s*** in her wig" and made her "question a career in Hollywood".
She made the allegations after Michele voiced her support for the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of George Floyd - a 46-year-old black American man who died after a white police officer kneeled on his neck for several minutes during an arrest in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Image: Former Glee stars Jenna Ushkowitz, Cory Monteith, Lea Michele and Kevin McHale performing in 2010
"George Floyd did not deserve this," Michele tweeted.
"This was not an isolated incident and it must end."
Ware retweeted the post and told fans about her behind-the-scenes experiences with the actress.
Ware, 28, wrote: ''Remember when you made my first television gig a living hell?!?!...
"Cause I'll never forget... I believe you told everyone that if you had the opportunity you would 's*** in my wig!' amongst other traumatic microaggressions that made me question a career in Hollywood."
Michele, who is pregnant with her first child with her husband, businessman Zandy Reich, 37, has not responded to Ware's accusations.
Advertisement
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Michele, 33, played the role of Rachel Berry for six seasons of the Fox series, and was nominated for an Emmy, two Golden Globes and three Grammy awards for the part.
Ware, who appeared in the sixth season of Glee in 2015, has since starred on shows including What/If, Chicago Med, and God Friended Me.
Sky News has contacted Michele's representatives for comment.


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Panic as Floyd protesters hit with 'smoke cannisters' to clear path for Trump's photo-op

After nearly four years covering the extremes of Donald Trump 's presidency , this felt like the symbolic culmination of just how unpredictable and unprecedented his tenure has been .
In the middle of a national crisis , with protesters demanding an end to racial injustice and police brutality , he finally decided to address the nation .
As he was preparing , we were outside in the middle of a peaceful demonstration , filming as people from all over the nation shouted : `` I ca n't breathe '' - the final words of George Floyd .
But as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of nowhere , federal authorities lunged towards the crowd and started forcibly removing them .
One reporter was hit live on air .
Flash bangs , rubber bullets and people describing feeling the effects of tear gas .
It was chaos .
We could n't see a pocket of provocation - but what ensued was immediate panic and fearful screams as people tried to run away .
However , a statement from the Park Police said : `` As many of the protesters became more combative , continued to throw projectiles , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers then employed the use of smoke canisters and pepper balls .
`` No tear gas was used by USPP officers or other assisting law enforcement partners to close the area at Lafayette Park . ''
In a statement the Trump campaign said : `` We also know that police discovered stashes of weapons like glass bottles , baseball bats , and metal poles hidden nearby , which are indeed strange items to have on hand for a 'peaceful ' protest ' . ''
Minutes later , President Trump claimed he was an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witnessed was the kind of muscular force he has spent days calling for .
Some speculated this was a cynical attempt to cast a portrait of a baying mob , as he spoke of the need for law and order .
Soon after a path was clear for him to cross the street for a photo-op - clutching a Bible in front of the historic St John 's Episcopal Church , visited by every president since James Madison .
But never like this - flanked by National Guard , metres away from those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership .
The early evening felt very different to the previous nights we had witnessed .
Every corner of the city was covered , was blocked off by riot police and National Guard .
Flashing lights everywhere you looked .
It seemed there was finally stability 24 hours after the spectre of the White House engulfed in smoke .
There was very little space for the protesters to move .
Like Minneapolis , they appeared to have a handle on things .
But then out of nowhere , hours after the curfew just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Pennsylvania Avenue , an erratic moment of eruption .
We could see people running into CVS - it was n't clear if they 'd taken anything , but quickly a string of armed officers , military vehicles , motorbikes and police cars were chasing them down there street .
There were screams filling the air and about 200 protesters running in every direction .
A whole line of officers started firing rounds of tear gas .
We were right by them as they hurriedly tried to catch up with the crowd .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Then the incongruous site of an Apple store surrounded by riot police , guns and batons , and roads all engulfed in smoke .
We tried to keep our distance , but I was quickly consumed by the gas , my eyes burning intensely as I struggled to see the road in front .
The street I drive to work every day , where I pass the White House and often think how lucky I am to cover such a fascinating time in American politics , now looked like a war zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker What this war in American society will achieve it 's impossible to know .
But the outrage , the anger , the violence is far from resolved .
It may well end up helping - not hurting - Donald Trump 's presidency as he casts this movement as the work of anarchists and the radical left .
They are certainly a section of those taking part , so too are opportunistic criminals .
At the core of this is what I 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths at the hands of police - deep frustration at the inequities of this country that ca n't seem to shirk its racist past or pockets of police brutality .
This was not the 2020 I thought I 'd be covering .
But then , I should have known , discord and division is exactly what we 've come to expect .

After nearly four years covering the extremes of Donald Trump's presidency, this felt like the symbolic culmination of just how unpredictable and unprecedented his tenure has been.
In the middle of a national crisis, with protesters demanding an end to racial injustice and police brutality, he finally decided to address the nation.
As he was preparing, we were outside in the middle of a peaceful demonstration, filming as people from all over the nation shouted: "I can't breathe" - the final words of George Floyd.
Image: Sky's Cordelia Lynch suffered the effects of the gas
But as he prepared for the speech, out of nowhere, federal authorities lunged towards the crowd and started forcibly removing them.
One reporter was hit live on air. Flash bangs, rubber bullets and people describing feeling the effects of tear gas. It was chaos.
We couldn't see a pocket of provocation - but what ensued was immediate panic and fearful screams as people tried to run away.
However, a statement from the Park Police said: "As many of the protesters became more combative, continued to throw projectiles, and attempted to grab officers' weapons, officers then employed the use of smoke canisters and pepper balls.
"No tear gas was used by USPP officers or other assisting law enforcement partners to close the area at Lafayette Park."
In a statement the Trump campaign said: "We also know that police discovered stashes of weapons like glass bottles, baseball bats, and metal poles hidden nearby, which are indeed strange items to have on hand for a 'peaceful' protest'."
Advertisement
Minutes later, President Trump claimed he was an ally of peaceful protesters but what we witnessed was the kind of muscular force he has spent days calling for.
Image: Riot police rushed demonstrators as they cleared Lafayette Park and the area around it for Donald Trump
Image: Police officers shot gas canisters next to the church
Some speculated this was a cynical attempt to cast a portrait of a baying mob, as he spoke of the need for law and order.
Soon after a path was clear for him to cross the street for a photo-op - clutching a Bible in front of the historic St John's Episcopal Church, visited by every president since James Madison.
But never like this - flanked by National Guard, metres away from those who had lost all faith in his leadership.
The early evening felt very different to the previous nights we had witnessed.
Every corner of the city was covered, was blocked off by riot police and National Guard. Flashing lights everywhere you looked.
Image: The president's photo op outside St John's Episcopal Church
It seemed there was finally stability 24 hours after the spectre of the White House engulfed in smoke. There was very little space for the protesters to move.
Like Minneapolis, they appeared to have a handle on things.
But then out of nowhere, hours after the curfew just before midnight and just a few blocks from Pennsylvania Avenue, an erratic moment of eruption.
We could see people running into CVS - it wasn't clear if they'd taken anything, but quickly a string of armed officers, military vehicles, motorbikes and police cars were chasing them down there street.
There were screams filling the air and about 200 protesters running in every direction.
A whole line of officers started firing rounds of tear gas.
We were right by them as they hurriedly tried to catch up with the crowd. Most looked young, many sounded terrified.
Image: Parts of Washington resembled a 'war zone'
Then the incongruous site of an Apple store surrounded by riot police, guns and batons, and roads all engulfed in smoke.
We tried to keep our distance, but I was quickly consumed by the gas, my eyes burning intensely as I struggled to see the road in front.
The street I drive to work every day, where I pass the White House and often think how lucky I am to cover such a fascinating time in American politics, now looked like a war zone.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
What this war in American society will achieve it's impossible to know. But the outrage, the anger, the violence is far from resolved.
It may well end up helping - not hurting - Donald Trump's presidency as he casts this movement as the work of anarchists and the radical left.
They are certainly a section of those taking part, so too are opportunistic criminals.
At the core of this is what I've seen in the wake of so many deaths at the hands of police - deep frustration at the inequities of this country that can't seem to shirk its racist past or pockets of police brutality.
This was not the 2020 I thought I'd be covering. But then, I should have known, discord and division is exactly what we've come to expect.


skynewsus--2020-06-03--'He loved her so much': George Floyd ex and daughter in tearful appeal for justice

The mother of George Floyd 's daughter has made an emotional plea for justice , sobbing as she insisted he was a good man `` no matter what anybody thinks '' .
With her six-year-old daughter Gianna clinging to her , Roxie Washington said she wanted all four officers involved in Mr Floyd 's death to pay for the killing , which has sparked fierce protests across the US and the world .
`` At the end of the day , they get to go home and be with their families .
Gianna does n't have a father .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , graduate .
He will never walk her down the aisle . ''
Ms Washington made her remarks during a news conference at Minneapolis City Hall .
`` He loved her , he loved her so much , '' she said .
`` I 'm here for my baby .
I 'm here for George because I want justice for him , and I want justice for him because he was good .
No matter what anybody thinks , he was good . ''
George Floyd , 46 , died last week in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $ 20 note in a shop .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Ms Washington 's plea came as protests over his death continued across America , with around 40 cities imposing curfews .
But things were calmer than on Monday - when police fired tear gas at crowds in the US capital as Donald Trump made his way for a photo opportunity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park near the White House .
The crowd started thinning out on its own after 8pm - an hour after a curfew went into place - with a few hundred remaining , chanting at police .
Around 1,600 army troops have been deployed to the Washington region .
They are not yet involved in policing the protests but a Pentagon spokesman said they were on `` heightened alert '' .
In New York , there were arrests as well as some reports of looting as thousands of demonstrators remained on the streets after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fearing a repeat of the violence of the day before , had boarded up their windows However , mayor Bill de Blasio rejected calls from Mr Trump to bring in the National Guard after the president tweeted that `` lowlifes and losers are ripping you apart '' .
There were also `` hundreds '' of arrests in Los Angeles overnight , said a police spokesperson , as protesters ignored the 6pm curfew .
Sky 's reporter at one demonstration in Hollywood said it appeared that police wanted to avoid confrontation .
Other marches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Houston , Boston and Seattle - where people lay on the floor with their hands behind their back mimicking the position Mr Floyd was in when he died .
Demonstrations have also spread around the world , and in Paris riot officers fired tear gas at protesters who threw missiles and set fires during an unauthorised demonstration against police violence and racial injustice .
Several thousand people had previously rallied peacefully for two hours around the main Paris courthouse in homage to George Floyd and to Adama Traore , a French black man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had banned the protest because of coronavirus restrictions that banned any gathering of more than 10 people .

The mother of George Floyd's daughter has made an emotional plea for justice, sobbing as she insisted he was a good man "no matter what anybody thinks".
With her six-year-old daughter Gianna clinging to her, Roxie Washington said she wanted all four officers involved in Mr Floyd's death to pay for the killing, which has sparked fierce protests across the US and the world.
"At the end of the day, they get to go home and be with their families. Gianna doesn't have a father.
Image: Gianna clung to her mother during the press conference
"He will never see her grow up, graduate. He will never walk her down the aisle."
Ms Washington made her remarks during a news conference at Minneapolis City Hall.
"He loved her, he loved her so much," she said.
"I'm here for my baby. I'm here for George because I want justice for him, and I want justice for him because he was good. No matter what anybody thinks, he was good."
George Floyd, 46, died last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 note in a shop.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Advertisement
Ms Washington's plea came as protests over his death continued across America, with around 40 cities imposing curfews.
But things were calmer than on Monday - when police fired tear gas at crowds in the US capital as Donald Trump made his way for a photo opportunity.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 NY police arrest protesters breaking 8pm curfew
Image: Police blocked protesters from the entrance to Manhattan Bridge
In Washington, people gathered outside Lafayette Park near the White House.
The crowd started thinning out on its own after 8pm - an hour after a curfew went into place - with a few hundred remaining, chanting at police.
Around 1,600 army troops have been deployed to the Washington region.
They are not yet involved in policing the protests but a Pentagon spokesman said they were on "heightened alert".
Image: Protesters face up to police at a peaceful demonstration in Boston
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Thousands lie down on Portland Bridge
In New York, there were arrests as well as some reports of looting as thousands of demonstrators remained on the streets after its 8pm curfew.
Some businesses, fearing a repeat of the violence of the day before, had boarded up their windows
However, mayor Bill de Blasio rejected calls from Mr Trump to bring in the National Guard after the president tweeted that "lowlifes and losers are ripping you apart".
There were also "hundreds" of arrests in Los Angeles overnight, said a police spokesperson, as protesters ignored the 6pm curfew.
Image: Protesters in LA closed off part of Sunset Boulevard
Sky's reporter at one demonstration in Hollywood said it appeared that police wanted to avoid confrontation.
Other marches took place in Portland, Miami, Houston, Boston and Seattle - where people lay on the floor with their hands behind their back mimicking the position Mr Floyd was in when he died.
Demonstrations have also spread around the world, and in Paris riot officers fired tear gas at protesters who threw missiles and set fires during an unauthorised demonstration against police violence and racial injustice.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:23 Police officers take the knee at New Jersey rally
Several thousand people had previously rallied peacefully for two hours around the main Paris courthouse in homage to George Floyd and to Adama Traore, a French black man who died in police custody.
Police had banned the protest because of coronavirus restrictions that banned any gathering of more than 10 people.


skynewsus--2020-06-02--Hackers steal secrets from US nuclear missile contractor

Hackers have stolen confidential documents from a US military contractor which provides critical support for the country 's Minuteman III nuclear deterrent , Sky News has learnt .
After gaining access to Westech International 's computer network , the criminals encrypted the company 's machines and began to leak documents online to pressure the company to pay extortion .
It is unclear if the documents stolen by the criminals include military classified information , but files which have already been leaked online suggest the hackers had access to extremely sensitive data , including payroll and emails .
There are also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could attempt to monetise their haul by selling information about the nuclear deterrent on to a hostile state .
Court documents in the US allege that Russian cyber criminals with a financial motivation have collaborated with the intelligence services in order to steal classified government documents .
A spokesperson for Westech confirmed to Sky News that the company had been hacked and its computers encrypted , and that investigations to identify what data the criminals had managed to steal were ongoing .
The company is involved with the nuclear deterrent as a sub-contractor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintenance support for the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles .
Minuteman III is the land-based component of the US nuclear deterrent , stored in hundreds of protected underground launch facilities operated by the US Air Force .
Each ICBM is capable of delivering multiple thermonuclear warheads further than 6,000 miles , or the distance between London and Buenos Aires .
Brett Callow , a researcher for Emsisoft which specialises in tackling ransomware incidents , told Sky News : `` This is not the first incident in which a contractor has leaked data and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not be the last .
`` The information exposed in these incidents could potentially be of interest to other nation states and present a risk to both national security and to the safety of service personnel .
`` Even if a company pays the ransom , there is no guarantee that the criminals will destroy the stolen data , especially if it has a high market value .
`` They may still sell it to other governments or trade it with other criminal enterprises , '' Mr Callow warned , adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model is offering interested parties the opportunity to bid for its stolen data .
Westech 's computers were encrypted with the MAZE ransomware , which is traded on a range of Russian-speaking underground cyber crime markets and has been used to attack dozens of companies in the West in the past year alone .
The creators of MAZE seem to operate under an affiliate model allowing hackers to use their tool in exchange for a slice of the profits , according to research into the group by cyber security firm FireEye .
Charles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mandiant told Sky News that the creators of the ransomware were definitely separate from the groups operating it - although there was some co-ordination between them all .
The creators have a centralised voice through their naming and shaming website , Mr Carmakal noted , where they leak documents in order to extort their victims .
However there are various groups performing the attacks themselves , some of whom FireEye has identified recruiting collaborators on Russian-language cyber crime forums .
Mr Carmakal said it was not always easy for these types of criminals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they wished to sell particularly valuable data .
`` The real risk is that , as these groups have proven they will do , the threat actors will publish the data they 've stolen , '' he added .
Westech 's spokesperson told Sky News : `` We recently experienced a ransomware incident , which affected some of our systems and encrypted some of our files .
`` Upon learning of the issue , we immediately commenced an investigation and contained our systems , '' they added .
`` We have also been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm to analyse our systems for any compromise and to determine if any personal information is at risk . ''
Sky News can confirm that personal information is included in the documents which the criminals have leaked online .
Northrup Grumman and the US Department of Defense declined to comment .

Hackers have stolen confidential documents from a US military contractor which provides critical support for the country's Minuteman III nuclear deterrent, Sky News has learnt.
After gaining access to Westech International's computer network, the criminals encrypted the company's machines and began to leak documents online to pressure the company to pay extortion.
It is unclear if the documents stolen by the criminals include military classified information, but files which have already been leaked online suggest the hackers had access to extremely sensitive data, including payroll and emails.
Image: Westech International is a US military contractor
There are also concerns that Russian-speaking operators behind the attack could attempt to monetise their haul by selling information about the nuclear deterrent on to a hostile state.
Court documents in the US allege that Russian cyber criminals with a financial motivation have collaborated with the intelligence services in order to steal classified government documents.
A spokesperson for Westech confirmed to Sky News that the company had been hacked and its computers encrypted, and that investigations to identify what data the criminals had managed to steal were ongoing.
The company is involved with the nuclear deterrent as a sub-contractor for Northrup Grumman, providing engineering and maintenance support for the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Minuteman III is the land-based component of the US nuclear deterrent, stored in hundreds of protected underground launch facilities operated by the US Air Force.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Advertisement
Each ICBM is capable of delivering multiple thermonuclear warheads further than 6,000 miles, or the distance between London and Buenos Aires.
Brett Callow, a researcher for Emsisoft which specialises in tackling ransomware incidents, told Sky News: "This is not the first incident in which a contractor has leaked data and, unless action is taken, it will not be the last.
"The information exposed in these incidents could potentially be of interest to other nation states and present a risk to both national security and to the safety of service personnel.
"Even if a company pays the ransom, there is no guarantee that the criminals will destroy the stolen data, especially if it has a high market value.
"They may still sell it to other governments or trade it with other criminal enterprises," Mr Callow warned, adding that another criminal group operating under the same model is offering interested parties the opportunity to bid for its stolen data.
Image: ICBM launch sites are protected locations
Westech's computers were encrypted with the MAZE ransomware, which is traded on a range of Russian-speaking underground cyber crime markets and has been used to attack dozens of companies in the West in the past year alone.
The creators of MAZE seem to operate under an affiliate model allowing hackers to use their tool in exchange for a slice of the profits, according to research into the group by cyber security firm FireEye.
Charles Carmakal of FireEye's incident response arm Mandiant told Sky News that the creators of the ransomware were definitely separate from the groups operating it - although there was some co-ordination between them all.
The creators have a centralised voice through their naming and shaming website, Mr Carmakal noted, where they leak documents in order to extort their victims.
However there are various groups performing the attacks themselves, some of whom FireEye has identified recruiting collaborators on Russian-language cyber crime forums.
Mr Carmakal said it was not always easy for these types of criminals to get access to their governments if they wished to sell particularly valuable data.
"The real risk is that, as these groups have proven they will do, the threat actors will publish the data they've stolen," he added.
Westech's spokesperson told Sky News: "We recently experienced a ransomware incident, which affected some of our systems and encrypted some of our files.
"Upon learning of the issue, we immediately commenced an investigation and contained our systems," they added.
"We have also been working closely with an independent computer forensic firm to analyse our systems for any compromise and to determine if any personal information is at risk."
Sky News can confirm that personal information is included in the documents which the criminals have leaked online.
Northrup Grumman and the US Department of Defense declined to comment.


skynewsus--2020-06-03--Three more officers to be charged over George Floyd's death

Three police officers present when their colleague knelt on George Floyd 's neck for more than eight minutes are to face charges .
Prosecutors have also upgraded the charges against the main officer involved , Derek Chauvin , to second-degree murder .
He had initially been charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter over Mr Floyd 's death , which has triggered protests across the US and around the world .
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said : `` I believe the evidence available to us now supports the stronger charge of second-degree murder . ''
All four Minneapolis officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death on 25 May , but the three were not immediately charged .
Mr Ellison said Thomas Lane , J Kueng and Tou Thao will stand accused of aiding and abetting second-degree murder .
`` I strongly believe that these developments are in the interests of justice for Mr Floyd , his family , our community and our state , '' he added .
He went on to thank people for their patience with prosecutors to date and appealed for further patience as the cases progress .
Lawyer Ben Crump tweeted that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Mr Ellison 's action and called it `` a source of peace for George 's family in this difficult time '' .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The criminal complaint against Chauvin said : `` Officer Chauvin 's restraint of Mr Floyd in this manner for a prolonged period was a substantial causal factor in Mr Floyd losing consciousness , constituting substantial bodily harm , and Mr Floyd 's death as well . ''
Some of the disorder seen in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dissipated on Tuesday night , with no major reports of violence as demonstrations continued around the US .
Curfews and efforts by protesters to contain any clashes were credited with preventing more widespread damage to businesses in New York and other cities overnight .
New York mayor Bill de Blasio said : `` Last night we took a step forward in moving out of this difficult period we 've had the last few days and moving to a better time . ''
The city 's police said they arrested about 280 people on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with 700 a day earlier .

Three police officers present when their colleague knelt on George Floyd's neck for more than eight minutes are to face charges.
Prosecutors have also upgraded the charges against the main officer involved, Derek Chauvin, to second-degree murder.
He had initially been charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter over Mr Floyd's death, which has triggered protests across the US and around the world.
Image: Protests have taken place across the US following Mr Floyd's death, including this demonstration in Atlanta
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said: "I believe the evidence available to us now supports the stronger charge of second-degree murder."
All four Minneapolis officers had been fired after Mr Floyd's death on 25 May, but the three were not immediately charged.
Mr Ellison said Thomas Lane, J Kueng and Tou Thao will stand accused of aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
Image: Derek Chauvin has been charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter
"I strongly believe that these developments are in the interests of justice for Mr Floyd, his family, our community and our state," he added.
He went on to thank people for their patience with prosecutors to date and appealed for further patience as the cases progress.
Lawyer Ben Crump tweeted that the Floyd family was "deeply gratified" by Mr Ellison's action and called it "a source of peace for George's family in this difficult time".
Advertisement
Image: George Floyd. Pic: Shutterstock
The criminal complaint against Chauvin said: "Officer Chauvin's restraint of Mr Floyd in this manner for a prolonged period was a substantial causal factor in Mr Floyd losing consciousness, constituting substantial bodily harm, and Mr Floyd's death as well."
Some of the disorder seen in the days since Mr Floyd's death dissipated on Tuesday night, with no major reports of violence as demonstrations continued around the US.
Curfews and efforts by protesters to contain any clashes were credited with preventing more widespread damage to businesses in New York and other cities overnight.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
New York mayor Bill de Blasio said: "Last night we took a step forward in moving out of this difficult period we've had the last few days and moving to a better time."
The city's police said they arrested about 280 people on protest-related charges on Tuesday night, compared with 700 a day earlier.


skynewsus--2020-06-03--Trump: I was inspecting bunker, not shielding because of protests

Donald Trump says he went to an underground White House bunker for an `` inspection '' , rather than for protection from protesters .
The US president was taken to the facility amid demonstrations nearby on Friday , with reports at the time suggesting he had been there for almost an hour along with First Lady Melania Trump and their son Barron .
But while the Republican admitted he had been to the bunker , he insisted it had only been briefly and had nothing to do with the protests .
He told Fox News Radio : `` It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was there for a tiny , little period of time .
`` They said it would be a good time to go down and take a look because maybe sometime you 're going to need it . ''
Mr Trump went on to repeat his threat of military action in New York , continuing his efforts to link civil unrest following the death of George Floyd to liberal leaders in the city .
`` If they do n't get their act straightened out I will solve it .
I 'll solve it fast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also denied tear gas was used on peaceful protesters outside a historic church in Washington DC to clear the way for him to stage a photo opportunity - contradicting the accounts of many who were present .
He said : `` Now , when I went , I did n't say 'Oh , move them out . '
I did n't know who was there . ''
Having renewed his attacks on prominent figures including MSNBC anchor and former congressman Joe Scarborough and CNN presenter Chris Cuomo , he was asked why he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ongoing national crisis .
`` I just do it , you know , people hit me , I hit back , '' he said .
It came as US Defence Secretary Mark Esper said he opposed the use of active-duty soldiers to contain the protests , which Mr Trump has suggested .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mr Esper said troops in a law enforcement role should be used in `` only in the most urgent and dire of situations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of those situations now , '' he added .
Protests have raged across the US since the death of 46-year-old Mr Floyd in Minneapolis , after a white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes .
Having previously criticised his successor 's handling of the crisis , former president Barack Obama is due to deliver a speech on Wednesday at 10pm UK time ( 5pm EST ) .

Donald Trump says he went to an underground White House bunker for an "inspection", rather than for protection from protesters.
The US president was taken to the facility amid demonstrations nearby on Friday, with reports at the time suggesting he had been there for almost an hour along with First Lady Melania Trump and their son Barron.
But while the Republican admitted he had been to the bunker, he insisted it had only been briefly and had nothing to do with the protests.
Image: The president was taken to the White House bunker on Friday
He told Fox News Radio: "It was much more for the inspection. I was there for a tiny, little period of time.
"They said it would be a good time to go down and take a look because maybe sometime you're going to need it."
Mr Trump went on to repeat his threat of military action in New York, continuing his efforts to link civil unrest following the death of George Floyd to liberal leaders in the city.
"If they don't get their act straightened out I will solve it. I'll solve it fast," he said.
The president also denied tear gas was used on peaceful protesters outside a historic church in Washington DC to clear the way for him to stage a photo opportunity - contradicting the accounts of many who were present.
He said: "Now, when I went, I didn't say 'Oh, move them out.' I didn't know who was there."
Advertisement
Image: Demonstrators hold up placards protest outside the White House on Monday
Having renewed his attacks on prominent figures including MSNBC anchor and former congressman Joe Scarborough and CNN presenter Chris Cuomo, he was asked why he chose to focus on such spats amid an ongoing national crisis.
"I just do it, you know, people hit me, I hit back," he said.
It came as US Defence Secretary Mark Esper said he opposed the use of active-duty soldiers to contain the protests, which Mr Trump has suggested.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Mr Esper said troops in a law enforcement role should be used in "only in the most urgent and dire of situations".
"We are not in one of those situations now," he added.
Protests have raged across the US since the death of 46-year-old Mr Floyd in Minneapolis, after a white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes.
Having previously criticised his successor's handling of the crisis, former president Barack Obama is due to deliver a speech on Wednesday at 10pm UK time (5pm EST).


skynewsus--2020-06-03--Facebook suspends white nationalist groups encouraging ambushes of George Floyd protests

Facebook has suspended a number of accounts associated with white nationalist groups after they advocated bringing weapons to ongoing protests in the US .
The social media company also took down a number of pages and accounts which were connected to a fake antifa account operated by white supremacists which Twitter removed on Monday .
Protests continue in the United States following the police killing of George Floyd , with a number of peaceful protests being attacked by police following President Donald Trump 's call for the authorities to `` dominate the streets '' .
Two white supremacist groups were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with the site taking action before completing its investigation due to the risk of violence .
Among the suspended accounts were some that attempted to organise members to attend a local protest armed with weapons .
According to executives at the company who spoke to Reuters , these accounts were removed based on their behaviour and not their political opinions .
President Trump last week accused the entire social media industry of censorship and anti-conservative bias , signing an executive order aimed at curbing protections for the sites as publishers .
Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for glorifying violence when he quipped `` when the looting starts , the shooting starts '' amid the protests following Mr Floyd 's death .
Facebook 's chief executive , Mark Zuckerberg , said that his company would not be challenging the president 's messages in this fashion , drawing criticism from many of his employees .
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden criticised the president , claiming Mr Trump is `` consumed with his blinding ego '' and exacerbating unrest in the US .
Mr Biden said Mr Trump 's `` narcissism has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he leads '' , and added `` the moment has come '' to deal with systemic racism in the country .
The president responded on Twitter : `` Sleepy Joe has been in politics for 40 years , and did nothing .
Now he pretends to have the answers .
He does n't even know the questions .
`` Weakness will never beat anarchists , looters or thugs , and Joe has been politically weak all of his life .
LAW & ORDER ! ''

Facebook has suspended a number of accounts associated with white nationalist groups after they advocated bringing weapons to ongoing protests in the US.
The social media company also took down a number of pages and accounts which were connected to a fake antifa account operated by white supremacists which Twitter removed on Monday.
Protests continue in the United States following the police killing of George Floyd, with a number of peaceful protests being attacked by police following President Donald Trump's call for the authorities to "dominate the streets".
Two white supremacist groups were identified agitating by Facebook during these protests, with the site taking action before completing its investigation due to the risk of violence.
Among the suspended accounts were some that attempted to organise members to attend a local protest armed with weapons.
According to executives at the company who spoke to Reuters, these accounts were removed based on their behaviour and not their political opinions.
President Trump last week accused the entire social media industry of censorship and anti-conservative bias, signing an executive order aimed at curbing protections for the sites as publishers.
Twitter has hidden a tweet from his account for glorifying violence when he quipped "when the looting starts, the shooting starts" amid the protests following Mr Floyd's death.
Facebook's chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, said that his company would not be challenging the president's messages in this fashion, drawing criticism from many of his employees.
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:15 Trump slammed for 'Bible photo-op'
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden criticised the president, claiming Mr Trump is "consumed with his blinding ego" and exacerbating unrest in the US.
Mr Biden said Mr Trump's "narcissism has become more important than the nation that he leads", and added "the moment has come" to deal with systemic racism in the country.
The president responded on Twitter: "Sleepy Joe has been in politics for 40 years, and did nothing. Now he pretends to have the answers. He doesn't even know the questions.
"Weakness will never beat anarchists, looters or thugs, and Joe has been politically weak all of his life. LAW & ORDER!"


skynewsus--2020-06-03--Lea Michele says sorry for 'perception' of behaviour after bullying accusations

Lea Michele has apologised for her behaviour and the way it was `` perceived '' following allegations of bullying , but insists she has never judged anyone on their colour .
The 33-year-old actress has faced a backlash on social media , after posting a message of support for the # BlackLivesMatter movement , only to be called out for bad behaviour by a former colleague .
Glee co-star Samantha Ware , who starred as Jane Hayward in the US musical comedy-drama , accused Michele of making her life a `` living hell '' when they worked together , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Describing Michele 's behaviour as `` traumatic microaggressions '' , Ware said it made her `` question a career in Hollywood . ''
The post was widely shared , leading the hashtag # LeaMicheleIsOverParty to trend on Twitter .
Michele has now responded to the accusations on Instagram , saying that while she does n't remember making that specific statement , she has `` never judged others by their background or colour of their skin '' .
She goes on : `` That 's not really the point .
What matters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which hurt other people . ''
Ware 's accusations of racism came after Michele voiced her support for the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of George Floyd .
Floyd , 46 , died last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $ 20 note in a shop .
Michele wrote : `` George Floyd did not deserve this .
This was not an isolated incident and it must end .
# @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ware commented all in capital letters , writing : `` Remember when you made my first television gig a living hell ?
!
?
!
... `` Cause I 'll never forget ...
I believe you told everyone that if you had the opportunity you would 's*** in my wig ! '
amongst other traumatic microaggressions that made me question a career in Hollywood . ''
Several other Glee cast members shared GIFs in response to the post , seeming to acknowledge Ware 's claims .
Describing her initial tweet about Floyd as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends and neighbours and communities of colour '' , Michele says the response to her post has `` made me also focus specifically on how my own behaviour towards fellow cast members was perceived by them '' .
Michele 's statement goes on : `` Whether it was my privileged position and perspective that caused me to be perceived as insensitive or inappropriate at times or whether it was just my immaturity and me just being unnecessarily difficult , I apologise for my behaviour and for any pain which I have caused .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` we all can grow and change '' , promising , `` I will be better in the future from this experience . ''
Michele says one of the reasons she must `` work to better herself '' is to be a good role model for her first child with her husband , businessman Zandy Reich , which is due in a few months .
Following the accusations of racism , Hello Fresh announced the immediate termination of their US partnership with Michele , after joining forces earlier this year .
Michele , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Berry for six seasons of the Fox series , and was nominated for an Emmy , two Golden Globes and three Grammy awards for the part .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ware , who appeared in the sixth season of Glee in 2015 , has since starred on shows including What/If , Chicago Med , and God Friended Me .
Meanwhile , protests calling for an end systemic racism have taken place across America following Floyd 's death , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ troops placed on `` heightened alert '' .

Lea Michele has apologised for her behaviour and the way it was "perceived" following allegations of bullying, but insists she has never judged anyone on their colour.
The 33-year-old actress has faced a backlash on social media, after posting a message of support for the #BlackLivesMatter movement, only to be called out for bad behaviour by a former colleague.
Image: Ware says Michele targeted her with 'traumatic microaggressions'
Glee co-star Samantha Ware, who starred as Jane Hayward in the US musical comedy-drama, accused Michele of making her life a "living hell" when they worked together, even threatening to "s*** in her wig".
Describing Michele's behaviour as "traumatic microaggressions", Ware said it made her "question a career in Hollywood."
The post was widely shared, leading the hashtag #LeaMicheleIsOverParty to trend on Twitter.
Michele has now responded to the accusations on Instagram, saying that while she doesn't remember making that specific statement, she has "never judged others by their background or colour of their skin".
She goes on: "That's not really the point. What matters is that I clearly acted in ways which hurt other people."
Ware's accusations of racism came after Michele voiced her support for the Black Lives Matter movement following the death of George Floyd .
Floyd, 46, died last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for at least eight minutes while arresting him for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 note in a shop.
Advertisement
Michele wrote: "George Floyd did not deserve this. This was not an isolated incident and it must end. #BlackLivesMatter."
Re-tweeting the post, Ware commented all in capital letters, writing: ''Remember when you made my first television gig a living hell?!?!...
"Cause I'll never forget... I believe you told everyone that if you had the opportunity you would 's*** in my wig!' amongst other traumatic microaggressions that made me question a career in Hollywood."
Several other Glee cast members shared GIFs in response to the post, seeming to acknowledge Ware's claims.
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Describing her initial tweet about Floyd as "a show of support for our friends and neighbours and communities of colour", Michele says the response to her post has "made me also focus specifically on how my own behaviour towards fellow cast members was perceived by them".
Michele's statement goes on: "Whether it was my privileged position and perspective that caused me to be perceived as insensitive or inappropriate at times or whether it was just my immaturity and me just being unnecessarily difficult, I apologise for my behaviour and for any pain which I have caused."
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
She went on to conclude that "we all can grow and change", promising, "I will be better in the future from this experience."
Michele says one of the reasons she must "work to better herself" is to be a good role model for her first child with her husband, businessman Zandy Reich, which is due in a few months.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Following the accusations of racism, Hello Fresh announced the immediate termination of their US partnership with Michele, after joining forces earlier this year.
Michele, 33, played the role of Rachel Berry for six seasons of the Fox series, and was nominated for an Emmy, two Golden Globes and three Grammy awards for the part.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ware, who appeared in the sixth season of Glee in 2015, has since starred on shows including What/If, Chicago Med, and God Friended Me.
Meanwhile, protests calling for an end systemic racism have taken place across America following Floyd's death, with around 40 cities imposing curfews and army troops placed on "heightened alert".


skynewsus--2020-06-03--All four officers now face charges over death of George Floyd

Three police officers present when their colleague knelt on George Floyd 's neck for more than eight minutes are to face charges .
Prosecutors have also upgraded the charges against the main officer involved , Derek Chauvin , to second-degree murder .
He had initially been charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter over Mr Floyd 's death , which has triggered protests across the US and around the world .
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said : `` I believe the evidence available to us now supports the stronger charge of second-degree murder . ''
All four Minneapolis officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death on 25 May , but the three were not immediately charged .
Mr Ellison said Thomas Lane , J Kueng and Tou Thao will stand accused of aiding and abetting second-degree murder .
`` I strongly believe that these developments are in the interests of justice for Mr Floyd , his family , our community and our state , '' he added .
He went on to thank people for their patience with prosecutors to date and appealed for further patience as the cases progress .
Lawyer Ben Crump tweeted that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Mr Ellison 's action and called it `` a source of peace for George 's family in this difficult time '' .
The criminal complaint against Chauvin said : `` Officer Chauvin 's restraint of Mr Floyd in this manner for a prolonged period was a substantial causal factor in Mr Floyd losing consciousness , constituting substantial bodily harm , and Mr Floyd 's death as well . ''
Some of the disorder seen in the days since Mr Floyd 's death dissipated on Tuesday night , with no major reports of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Curfews and efforts by protesters to contain any clashes were credited with preventing more widespread damage to businesses in New York and other cities overnight .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker New York mayor Bill de Blasio said : `` Last night we took a step forward in moving out of this difficult period we 've had the last few days and moving to a better time . ''
The city 's police said they arrested about 280 people on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with 700 a day earlier .


skynewsus--2020-06-04--Trump 'tries to divide us': Former Pentagon chief blasts president

Donald Trump 's former defence secretary , General Jim Mattis , has delivered a scathing assessment of the US president , accusing him of dividing the country and `` abusing '' his position of authority .
Mr Mattis says he has watched events in America this week `` angry and appalled '' and called on the country to `` reject and hold accountable those in office who would make a mockery of our Constitution '' .
`` Donald Trump is the first president in my lifetime who does not try to unite the American people - does not even pretend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to divide us , '' he writes in The Atlantic magazine .
`` We are witnessing the consequences of three years of this deliberate effort .
We are witnessing the consequences of three years without mature leadership .
`` We can unite without him , drawing on the strengths inherent in our civil society .
`` This will not be easy , as the past few days have shown , but we owe it to our fellow citizens ; to past generations that bled to defend our promise ; and to our children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ militarise the White House response to the ongoing protests in an effort to regain control of law and order .
He 's put the country 's most senior military officer in charge of the response and a leaked taped recorded the defense secretary urging state governors to `` dominate the battlespace '' .
`` We must reject any thinking of our cities as a `` battlespace '' that our uniformed military is called upon to `` dominate '' - says Mattis .
`` It erodes the moral ground that ensures a trusted bond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the society they are sworn to protect , and of which themselves they are a part . ''
On Monday Donald Trump was photographed holding a bible outside St John 's Church in Washington .
He was flanked by the current Defence Secretary Dr Mark Esper and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Milley .
It resulted in the resignation of a Pentagon adviser in protest .
Peaceful demonstrations had to be cleared using rubber bullets and tear gas so the photo op could take place , causing further anger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Matiss wrote : `` When I joined the military , some 50 years ago , I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution .
`` Never did I dream that troops taking the same oath would be ordered under any circumstance to violate the constitutional rights of their fellow citizens - much less to provide a bizarre photo op for the elected commander-in-chief , with military leadership standing alongside . ''
Mr Mattis , who was widely regarded as one of the greatest military officers of his generation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would withdraw US troops from Syria .
He has rarely spoken since leaving office but delivered the savage broadside in a letter published in The Atlantic magazine .
Mr Trump responded on Twitter , describing Mr Mattis as `` the world 's most overrated General '' .
`` His nickname was `` Chaos '' , which I did n't like , & changed to `` Mad Dog '' … '' the president wrote .

Donald Trump's former defence secretary, General Jim Mattis, has delivered a scathing assessment of the US president, accusing him of dividing the country and "abusing" his position of authority.
Mr Mattis says he has watched events in America this week "angry and appalled" and called on the country to "reject and hold accountable those in office who would make a mockery of our Constitution".
"Donald Trump is the first president in my lifetime who does not try to unite the American people - does not even pretend to try. Instead, he tries to divide us," he writes in The Atlantic magazine.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:57 Obama: 'It's an opportunity to be awakened'
"We are witnessing the consequences of three years of this deliberate effort. We are witnessing the consequences of three years without mature leadership.
"We can unite without him, drawing on the strengths inherent in our civil society.
"This will not be easy, as the past few days have shown, but we owe it to our fellow citizens; to past generations that bled to defend our promise; and to our children."
Trump has increasingly looked to militarise the White House response to the ongoing protests in an effort to regain control of law and order.
He's put the country's most senior military officer in charge of the response and a leaked taped recorded the defense secretary urging state governors to "dominate the battlespace".
"We must reject any thinking of our cities as a "battlespace" that our uniformed military is called upon to "dominate" - says Mattis.
Advertisement
"It erodes the moral ground that ensures a trusted bond between men and women in uniform and the society they are sworn to protect, and of which themselves they are a part."
Image: US President Donald Trump holds up a Bible outside of St John's Episcopal church across Lafayette Park in Washington DC
On Monday Donald Trump was photographed holding a bible outside St John's Church in Washington.
He was flanked by the current Defence Secretary Dr Mark Esper and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Milley.
It resulted in the resignation of a Pentagon adviser in protest.
Peaceful demonstrations had to be cleared using rubber bullets and tear gas so the photo op could take place, causing further anger in the capital.
Referring to that, Mr Matiss wrote: "When I joined the military, some 50 years ago, I swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution.
"Never did I dream that troops taking the same oath would be ordered under any circumstance to violate the constitutional rights of their fellow citizens - much less to provide a bizarre photo op for the elected commander-in-chief, with military leadership standing alongside."
Mr Mattis, who was widely regarded as one of the greatest military officers of his generation, resigned in 2018 after Trump announced he would withdraw US troops from Syria.
He has rarely spoken since leaving office but delivered the savage broadside in a letter published in The Atlantic magazine.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Mr Trump responded on Twitter, describing Mr Mattis as "the world's most overrated General".
"His nickname was "Chaos", which I didn't like, & changed to "Mad Dog"…" the president wrote.