The #OperationGridlock protest in Topeka, KS is underway this afternoon on the south side of the capitol building.
It’s hard to hear much besides car horns passing by.
It’s hard to hear much besides car horns passing by.
Several groups arrived visibly armed, brandishing holstered pistols or rifles slung over their shoulders 
While most of the demonstrators remain in their cars, honking as they circle the capitol, around 100-150 protestors line the sidewalks. Many of them holding signs, American flags, or Trump gear. #OperationGridlock #ksleg
It’s hard to count, but I’d say around 150-200 different cars have circled the capitol so far while honking
Maybe the most creative sign so far
Several health care workers are demonstrating at the same time. They told me they’re expressing solidarity for those working on the frontlines to fight the virus, risking their own lives in the process.
I watched a few protestors thank them for their work.
I watched a few protestors thank them for their work.
Protestors calling on @GovLauraKelly to “tell the truth.”
The protest is starting to slow down. Most demonstrators have moved towards the capitol building. Many cars still on the street sounding their horns.
The event according to Facebook goes from 12-2pm. Many protestors apparently arrived hours early.
The event according to Facebook goes from 12-2pm. Many protestors apparently arrived hours early.
Rep. Trevor Jacobs from KS HD 4 said he attened today’s protest with his constituents to protect his constitutional rights. He said the government has overstepped its bounds.
“Lord willing, I hope the people of Kansas wake up and realize that our freedoms are fragile.”
“Lord willing, I hope the people of Kansas wake up and realize that our freedoms are fragile.”
Kate Soza from Topeka has a compromised immune system and already takes protective measures. She isn’t afraid of contracting #COVID19, but said it would likely kill her if she did.
She said @GovLauraKelly has trampled her rights, and heard by the protest through Facebook.
She said @GovLauraKelly has trampled her rights, and heard by the protest through Facebook.
Raiden Gonzales, 19, drove 2 hours from Salina to counter protest and show support for healthcare workers.
“I have friends on the front lines. They see it everyday...I think it’s important to them that they know that I am on their side...I’m on the people of Kansas’s side.”
“I have friends on the front lines. They see it everyday...I think it’s important to them that they know that I am on their side...I’m on the people of Kansas’s side.”
Gonzales stood alongside several healthcare workers who protested in silence, rarely engaging with #operationgridlock protestors.
Lawrence nurse Zane White, left, told me they wanted to show support for those in health care and encourage people to stay safe from the virus.
Lawrence nurse Zane White, left, told me they wanted to show support for those in health care and encourage people to stay safe from the virus.
