Harsh words, fists fly at marches for Trump
Rallies across U.S. aim to show unity
There were fistfights and arrests on the streets of Berkeley, Calif., Saturday after clashing protesters scuffled repeatedly during a march in support of President Trump.
The Berkeley march was part of a nationwide effort as thousands of Trump supporters convened near New York’s Trump Tower, at the Washington Monument and in dozens of other cities in “March 4 Trump” demonstrations on behalf of the new president.
The rallies were intended to show unity in the face of what organizers call “a seditious fringe” aiming to sabotage Trump’s vision for the country.
Matthai Chakko, a spokesperson for the city of Berkeley, said there were 10 arrests, included five for battery, four for assault with a deadly weapon (including one with possession of a dagger) and one for resisting arrest. Seven people were injured but declined hospital treatment.
Among the items confiscated by Berkeley police were metal pipes, bats and lumber. A group with bricks was detained, and their bricks confiscated.
In New York, a couple hundred supporters gathered near the president’s Manhattan home, chanting “U-S-A.” One held a sign reading: “I am not a Democrat anymore.”
In Columbus, Ohio, Trump protesters shouted, “No Trump, No KKK, No Fascist USA” over the supporters’ “U-S-A” chants.
In Nashville, more than 1,000 people turned out for a Spirit of America rally to support Trump.