Trump supporters, protesters trade words outside Duluth rally

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Hours before President Donald Trump arrived for a rally at AMSOIL Arena in Duluth, hundreds of opponents and supporters assembled outside.

Some came bearing signs, t-shirts and hats. From immigration to religion, many held nothing back.

“I’m out here because I don’t believe Donald Trump represents what the Christian church stands for,” said Katie Russell, a protester.

“I think [the protesters] are a bunch of children who ought to go home and learn what freedom is all about,” said Ronald Smith, a Trump supporter. “They have no stinking idea. We finally have a president who fights for America, who fights for service men. I fought for my country, I’m proud of it and I’d do it again.”

At times, emotions ran high. At least one confrontation erupted, but police intervened before it got out of control.

More than 8,000 people packed the arena for the rally. Venus Stephens, who is from Mound, was one of many Trump supporters turned away at the door.

“I think it’s important for every American to be here,” said Stephens. “I’ve got my two children here today.”

It was also an event protester Mark Herman didn’t want to miss.

“To show my support against Trump, it’s the least I could do and tell my grandchild that at least I tried to do something rather than sit at home and do nothing,” said Herman.