Armed Trump Supporters Clash with Counter-Protesters in Salem

The Trump supporters assaulted at least one cameraman and pepper-sprayed a woman, while police struggled to contain the rally, the Portland Tribune reported. They were met with counterprotesters and punched one in the face, the New York Daily reported.

The Salem Police Department encouraged people to avoid the area and increased the number of officers on duty Saturday, the Salem Statesman Journal reported. They were joined by Oregon State Troopers.

Various Oregon Republicans joined the rally, including U.S. Senate candidate Jo Rae Perkins.

Perkins challenged Democratic senator Jeff Merkley but got less than 40% of the vote. She vowed to run again in 2022, according to the Portland Tribune.

Before and after losing the election, Trump has lied several times about the results. He’s encouraged his supporters to ignore the votes as well, with right-wingers across the nation heeding his call.