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Bongingo Announces Probe Following Incident In Seattle
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Bongingo Announces Probe Following Incident In Seattle

In a growing clash between civic leadership, religious activists, and law enforcement, FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced Tuesday that he has called for a full investigation into what he describes as “targeted violence” against religious groups following a volatile series of demonstrations in Seattle. The spark: a Christian rally denounced by the city’s mayor, counter-protests that escalated into arrests, and the ensuing accusations of religious bigotry and political overreach.

At the center of the controversy is the “Rattle in Seattle” protest — a Christian demonstration held on the steps of Seattle City Hall in direct response to comments by Mayor Bruce Harrell. The protest, organized by an evangelical conservative group, was ignited by what they saw as an official effort to vilify Christians in the wake of a violent clash at Cal Anderson Park days earlier.


That initial conflict occurred during a MayDayUSA “Don’t Mess With Our Kids” rally, which promoted traditional family values and Christian teachings, and was met by a vociferous pro-LGBTQ counter-protest. The situation spiraled, leading to 23 arrests and injuries among police. Rather than fault the escalating tactics of some counter-protesters, Mayor Harrell issued a statement blaming the Christian rally itself — and “infiltrating anarchists” — for provoking violence.

This response drew swift backlash from conservative and religious circles. Organizers of “Rattle in Seattle” accused the mayor of engaging in religious scapegoating and called his remarks an “attack on First Amendment rights.” Their Tuesday demonstration saw the arrests of eight individuals, though no injuries were reported, as tensions once again erupted between supporters and counter-protesters outside City Hall.


Bongino, voicing concern over the pattern of hostility toward faith-based groups, stated plainly on X, “Freedom of religion isn’t a suggestion,” announcing the FBI’s intent to investigate claims that religious communities — specifically Christians — were being targeted for their beliefs.

Adding to the political theater, Mayor Harrell’s office released statements from several religious leaders backing his position. Among them, Rev. Dr. Patricia L. Hunter, a Baptist pastor, harshly criticized the Christian protest group for promoting what she labeled “bad theology” cloaked in hatred and bigotry. “It won’t work,” she declared, arguing that inclusive love and justice define the true Christian faith.


But for many conservatives, the mayor’s alignment with progressive clergy only confirmed fears that traditional religious voices were being systematically marginalized and vilified in the public square. The battle lines have clearly been drawn: on one side, those who say they are fighting for freedom of speech and religious liberty; on the other, civic leaders and activists who see certain expressions of faith as veils for intolerance.

Written by Arthur Higgens - May 28, 2025