Hundreds Of Tightly Packed Protesters Gather At Statehouse

BOSTON — Chants of "USA" rang out Monday at the steps of the Statehouse, where hundreds of people stood shoulder to shoulder protesting the state's stay-at-home advisory and closure of nonessential businesses, measures taken to slow the spread of the new coronavirus.

Many of the protesters weren't wearing masks, instead toting signs and garb supporting President Donald Trump. Large vehicles covered in Trump paraphernalia were at the scene. "Make America Free Again," read one woman's sign.

The Boston Globe reported the protest was organized in part by the people behind last fall's Straight Pride Parade.

"Beyond this COVID, it really is about power," said Mary Smith, who drove about 30 minutes to protest. "Our government really is holding on by a thread."

Some people shouted about tyranny, while others were upset about churches being closed while liquor stores remain open. One person held a "Fire Fauci" sign high above his head, a reference to Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert.

"I want Trump to get some other advisers in there besides guys like Fauci," said Bob Gorman, a part-time teacher from Medford. "They have a vested interest in vaccines and the vaccine industry. And he's very much a Hillary supporter. It's all over WikiLeaks. He wants to defeat Trump. This is a ruse."

Gov. Charlie Baker's stay-at-home advisory and closure of nonessential businesses is set to expire May 18, though he said earlier Monday the reopening will be a deliberately paced one. A face covering order goes into effect Wednesday.

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