FBI Launches Investigation into 'Targeted Violence' Against Religious Groups Following Evangelical Protest in Seattle
FBI investigates allegations of targeted violence against religious groups in Seattle, Deputy Director Dan Bongino reports.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has announced a federal investigation into claims of targeted violence against religious groups following a contentious evangelical rally held this week at Seattle City Hall. The rally, organized by a conservative Christian group, was a direct response to statements by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell that blamed Christians for sparking violence during a prior demonstration.
In a post on social media, Bongino stated, “We have asked our team to fully investigate allegations of targeted violence against religious groups at the Seattle concert. Freedom of religion isn’t a suggestion.” The comment comes on the heels of rising tensions between religious groups and activists in Seattle and adds a national law enforcement perspective to the heated local debate.
The event, titled “Rattle in Seattle,” began at 5 p.m. Tuesday on the steps of City Hall. Counter-protesters gathered alongside the rally, and city police were present to monitor the situation. According to Seattle Police, a total of eight arrests for assault occurred by 8 p.m., though no injuries were reported. Authorities temporarily closed streets surrounding City Hall but had reopened them by later that evening.
These developments follow a violent clash on Saturday at Cal Anderson Park, where the MayDayUSA group’s “Don’t Mess With Our Kids” rally drew a pro-LGBTQ counter-protest. That confrontation ended with 23 arrests after fighting broke out among attendees and counter-demonstrators.
Mayor Harrell, responding to the weekend's violence, released a statement arguing that the Christian rally intentionally provoked confrontation by promoting beliefs opposed to Seattle’s values—particularly in a neighborhood known for its LGBTQ+ community. He further claimed that self-identified anarchists infiltrated the counter-protest and incited violence, which led police to intervene and end the demonstration early.
The mayor's office also distributed statements from several local religious leaders, condemning what they described as fringe ideologies masked in religious rhetoric. Rev. Dr. Patricia L. Hunter, pastor at a local Baptist church, emphasized, “Those of us who actually follow the Jesus of the New Testament work to make the welcome tent bigger so that all God’s children regardless of sexuality or sexual identity are welcome at the table of love, justice, grace, and mercy.”
Organizers of the “Rattle in Seattle” rally sharply criticized the mayor’s comments, describing them as an example of religious bigotry and an infringement of their First Amendment rights. In a written statement, protesters argued that Mayor Harrell’s administration is failing to protect peaceful assembly and accused him of blaming Christians for violence perpetrated by others. They highlighted concerns over ongoing lawlessness and dysfunction in the city.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances around both recent demonstrations. Police and city officials have not yet commented on whether further arrests or policy changes will follow the escalating disputes between religious conservatives, LGBTQ+ advocates, and activist groups in the city. Fox News Digital has requested additional comment from the mayor’s office and law enforcement.
