Steve Kerr slams Donald Trump for turning protests into political spectacle as ICE raids spark intense debate

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr has been a longstanding critic of US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday, Kerr once again spoke out against Trump, this time on the President's handling of protests in the state of California.

In an interview with The San Francisco Standard, Kerr criticized Trump's deployment of National Guard members and Marines to quell protests in Los Angeles. The protests, which began on June 6, were sparked by sentiments against the ICE raids leading to the deportation of immigrants.

"So this is obviously just a classic page out of Trump’s playbook: Create a crisis in order to look like you’re solving it, using it as a political win, creating further divide,” Kerr said. “It’s so disappointing that we don’t have a president that’s actually focused on uniting us, and instead just continuing the divide that is happening in our country.”

Kerr, recognized as one of the 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA history, criticized Trump's decision to overrule California Governor Gavin Newsom, as deployment of the National Guard is usually reserved for gubernatorial requests. Kerr argued that California could manage the protests without federal intervention.

"Peaceful protest is one of the sacred rights in our country,” Kerr added. “The protests themselves are as American as apple pie as long as they don’t turn violent."

During the presidential campaign leading up to the 2024 elections, the multi-titled Warriors head coach appeared at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) to endorse Trump's opponent Kamala Harris. In his DNC appearance, Kerr mimicked Steph Curry's viral celebration by urging voters to tell Trump "night night" on November 5.

Trump ended up winning a second term in the White House, but Kerr remains undeterred in dishing out criticism when he sees fit.

Steve Kerr on tenure as Warriors head coach: "At this point, I'm year to year"

Two years before Donald Trump won his first term as President, Steve Kerr was already the head coach of the Warriors. In 11 seasons, he has won four NBA titles with the franchise and witnessed Steph Curry become the NBA's all-time leader in 3-point shooting.

Shortly after the Warriors' playoff elimination by the Timberwolves, Kerr commented on his future:

"At this point, I'm year to year. I love my job. It's so much fun...But I know where the team is, I know where the organization is. So I'm perfectly comfortable just going year by year at this point."

Interestingly, Kerr's current contract expires before the final year on Curry's deal. It's possible, of course, that Kerr and Curry will agree to play one final season together before a new era in the Warriors franchise dawns.