Hundreds of vocal citizens gathered on the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse yesterday afternoon to share their opinions of President Donald Trump. Supporters rallied on the steps of the Statehouse as a part of a national “Make America Great Again” Rally that took place in large cities all across the US, while a counter-protest took place on the sidewalk next to High Street.
Signage and identification revealed a diverse set of groups in attendance from the West Ohio Militia armed with assault weapons to local members of the Columbus chapter of the Socialist Alternative. While a few individuals appeared to be having more direct one-on-one conversations, the majority of all groups spent much of their time chanting and shouting over top of each other.
Those chants included “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here”, “USA, USA, USA” and “Hands too small, can’t build a wall.”
The crowds had mostly dispersed by 6pm. Team of Columbus police officers were present on bikes and horseback, and no arrests have were reported.
All photos by Matt Ellis.