TAMPA, FL (WFLA) — Protesters kept quiet outside the Donald Trump rally at the Tampa Convention Center Saturday morning. A handful of people held bright yellow signs with Trump’s picture and the words, “the face of racism.” Frank Belluardo showed up hoping to get the next “viral video of protesters.” Instead, he got a bunch of nothing.
“I was really expecting a lot more,” Belluardo said. “I’ve just seen a few people in Hillary hats.”
Officers, deputies, and the secret service patrolled on foot, horse, and boat. Tampa Police Spokesperson, Steve Hegarty, wouldn’t say how many officers they had at the event but did tell 8 On Your Side some were undercover.
Dave Cutler, one of the protesters with yellow signs, and a Democratic Party volunteer showed up to get his voice heard. He’s offended by Trump’s remarks about Mexican and Muslim people. He wasn’t shocked more protesters didn’t show up.
“It is a but of a last second event,” Cutler said. “Plus it’s a Saturday morning and it’s still early in the race.”
About a dozen supporters of the Hillsborough County Democrats gathered two hours before the rally across the street. Tampa City Council Chair, Mike Suarez, called Trump a “charlatan and fraud.”
So far Tampa Police haven’t reported any arrests.
Protesters stood at the corner as Trump supporters exited the rally chanting, “Mr. Hate leave our state” and “I believe that we will win.” Officers lined the area and 8 On Your Side didn’t see any violence.
