NPR

Analysts Say Armed Groups At Protests Raise Specter Of A 'Street War'

Street clashes have erupted, involving a mix of protesters, authorities, extremists and agitators. With armed factions squaring off, terrorism analysts fear the worse is still to come.

At a congressional hearing this month, extremism researcher J.J. MacNab delivered a warning: "There is a potential street war brewing."

MacNab cited the dangerous mix of armed factions squaring off at protests around the United States. Of all the current flashpoints for violence — the pandemic, the election, the economy — she called it the risk that worries her most.

"I am concerned that there will be a shootout at one or more of the Black Livestold House members. "There are too many guns at these events, held by too many groups with conflicting goals."

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