A Massachusetts man, Michael Curll, has been arrested and charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon after allegedly attacking an individual dressed in an inflatable President Trump costume in Swampscott. The incident occurred as the inflatable-clad individual was reportedly en route to a “No Kings” protest.
According to the person in the costume, Curll became agitated by the costume’s presence, allegedly yelling and expressing a desire to punch him. The costume-wearer stated he was only trying to elicit laughter and did not anticipate such a strong reaction. Curll has pleaded not guilty to the charge, adding another layer to the ongoing political polarization sometimes seen at public demonstrations and raising questions about the limits of free expression versus inciting violence.