Gov. Ron DeSantis condemned pro-Hamas protesters and acts of vandalism during a press conference on Thursday, noting that Florida “will not tolerate such behavior” and proposed revoking visas for individuals involved in anti-American activities.

Gov. Ron DeSantis admonished pro-Hamas protesters and vandals during a press conference on Thursday, stating that Florida will not tolerate acts of vandalism or anti-American demonstrations.

In what DeSantis described as a lax response in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, where protesters defaced statues; removed and burned the American flag; and replaced it with a Hamas flag, he contrasted by recounting an incident in Florida where law enforcement quickly dispersed protesters attempting to take over a street.

“That was a complete disgrace,” he said, questioning why those responsible were not prosecuted.

DeSantis subsequently expressed concern over a rise in anti-Semitic activities since October 7, describing it as unprecedented in his adult lifetime. He pointed to Florida’s legislative efforts and funding for security at Jewish day schools as part of the state’s efforts to combat anti-Semitism. DeSantis proposed revoking visas for individuals involved in anti-American activities, asserting that the U.S. should not harbor people with toxic ideologies.

“You will be held accountable in the state of Florida. You’re not taking over our streets. You’re not defacing our buildings. You are not going to take over our public universities. And if you try—go ahead, make my day,” DeSantis said.

The governor also criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for not addressing the vandalism on Wednesday at Union Station or meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Congress.

“It’s just disgraceful, and it’s unacceptable. I also think you have the leader of one of our strongest allies for whole, my whole lifetime, speaking in front of Congress, and yet Kamala can’t go there and greet him,” DeSantis lamented. “It’s not a way to treat an ally. She had no interest. She has not condemned what happened at Union Station … that was something that she had nothing to say about.”

Concurrent to DeSantis’ press conference, Harris released an official statement against the demonstrations in Washington, D.C.

“I condemn any individuals associating with the brutal terrorist organization Hamas, which has vowed to annihilate the State of Israel and kill Jews … I condemn the burning of the American flag. That flag is a symbol of our highest ideals as a nation and represents the promise of America. It should never be desecrated in that way,” she said. “I support the right to peacefully protest, but let’s be clear: Antisemitism, hate and violence of any kind have no place in our nation.”

This article was updated post-publication to include Vice President Harris’ statement.