High School Teacher Arrested for Clapping in Support of Anti-Data Center Activists

At an Emporia, Kansas city commission meeting on a proposed 1,000-acre data center, officials warned attendees not to clap or snap during public comment.

Physics teacher Lux Claridge was removed and arrested after clapping in support of an anti-data center speaker.

Residents criticized the police response, saying it chilled public dissent and free expression.

The case highlights tensions over protest rights, free speech, and local handling of major tech development projects.