Chef Andrew Gruel Observes Dichotomy Between Peaceful Protest and Nighttime Disorder, Citing Antifa

Huntington Beach City Councilman and celebrity chef Andrew Gruel recently took to social media to articulate a distinction between peaceful demonstrations and subsequent acts of vandalism, specifically referencing Antifa. In a tweet, Gruel stated, > "No one has a problem with peaceful protest. It’s as if they are doing this to distract from the chaos that ensues at night. “Hey look, we are just here to love” 5 hours later “antifa throws rocks through windows”." His comments highlight an ongoing public debate regarding protest tactics and accountability for property damage.

Antifa, a decentralized left-wing anti-fascist movement, engages in various forms of activism, including non-violent methods such as community organizing and protest marches. However, some individuals identifying with the movement have been associated with tactics involving property damage and physical altercations during demonstrations. While studies suggest the majority of Antifa actions are non-violent, specific instances of property destruction, such as those during the 2017 Berkeley protests, have drawn significant media attention.

The effectiveness and public perception of protest methods remain a complex subject. Research by scholars like Chenoweth and Stephan has indicated that non-violent campaigns are historically more successful in achieving their goals. Conversely, a growing body of academic work suggests that "riotous-violent protests" (RVPs), particularly sustained waves of them, can sometimes lead to government concessions, especially in democratic contexts. Crucially, public opinion is often swayed by who is perceived to initiate or escalate violence during demonstrations.

Gruel, known for his conservative political commentary and frequent appearances on Fox News, was appointed to the Huntington Beach City Council in March 2025. He has previously voiced strong opinions on political violence, advocating for a "zero tolerance policy" for those inciting such acts. His recent tweet underscores a broader societal concern about the nature of protests and the impact of destructive elements on their overall message and public acceptance.