Increasing frustration over the coronavirus lockdowns has ignited protests across the United States. And it seems these demonstrations are just getting started.
Over the past week, thousands of Americans have gathered at the capitals of their respective home states, in an effort to pressure lawmakers to lift stay-at-home orders. Though experts say the mandates are key in curbing the spread of COVID-19, many citizens argue the restrictions violate personal liberty and could result in a long-term economic catastrophe. Â
Mary Burkett, a Republican congressional candidate in Utah, participated in Wednesday's "Walk for Freedom" demonstration in St. George, where residents called on officials to ease social-distancing orders.
"The government, at all levels, has overstepped its authority in their request to 'protect' Americans from a virus," Burkett wrote in a press release. "While well-intentioned, it's naïve for the Mayor, and others, to think shutting down our local economy will 'protect' families. The American citizen is perfectly capable of deciding how to best protect themselves. We have a rich history of solving problems without government interference. Give us information and suggestions, if you must, then step aside and allow Americans to take care of solutions.
Michigan, Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Minnesota, and North Carolina are just some of other states where similar protests have occurred. Many of these demonstrations were organized by conservative groups and have received support from right-wing media and political figures.Â
Business closures due to the lockdowns was among the most-cited concerns among demonstrators, who say it is not up to lawmakers to determine what is or isn't an "essential business."Â On Thursday, it was reported that a total of 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment since the COVID-19 pandemic emerged.Â
Organizers of a Virginia protest released a statement explaining their opposition to Gov. Ralph Northam's stay-at-home order. The statement read in part:
Business owners are being forced to layoff employees while the unemployment system is failing those laid off as the economy free falls. This is a recipe for disaster with many in our society helpless. We cannot stand by and watch our neighbors suffer while the government considers prolonging these painful conditions. The economy should be reopened on 5/1 for healthy citizens continuing enhanced sanitation habits to prevent any virus from spreading.
President Donald Trump addressed the demonstrations during a press briefing Thursday, claiming he was sympathetic with their frustrations.
"They’re suffering ... they want to get back," he told reporters. "I think they're listening. I think they listen to me. They seem to be protesters that like me and respect this opinion, and my opinion is the same as just about all of the governors. They all want to open. Nobody wants to stay shut but they want to open safely. So do I."
On Friday, Trump confusingly tweeted out calls to "liberate" Virginia, Minnesota, and Massachusetts, seemingly suggesting citizens of those states should disobey the stay-at-home orders that are in place.
He also said that Virginians' 2nd amendment right was "under siege."
LIBERATE MINNESOTA!
LIBERATE MICHIGAN!
LIBERATE VIRGINIA, and save your great 2nd Amendment. It is under siege!
According to NBC News, more protests are scheduled to take place in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Texas, Oregon, Idaho, and Washington state.
