Trump Cancels Chicago Rally As Clashes Break Out
Thousands of protesters descend on site of Republican front-runner’s event; no arrests, injuries reported as sides scuffle and police disperse crowd
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump canceled a rally in a Chicago arena Friday night after thousands of protesters converged on the venue and clashed with Trump supporters. Ahead of Trump's expected speech, scores of protesters entered the arena at the University of Illinois at Chicago and the scene grew rowdy as crowds shouted pro- and anti-Trump slogans that included obscenities. Trump released a statement announcing the rally would be postponed. He urged everyone to "go in peace" and said he does not want to see anyone hurt. As scuffles broke out among those gathered, police and security guards took up positions to keep the groups separated. Television footage showed isolated clashes among small groups of rally-goers, with some exchanging shoves and punches. Police later dispersed the crowd. Police say no arrests were made and no injuries reported. Some Trump supporters say the demonstrators came to the Chicago rally determined to shut it down and cause trouble. But violence aimed at Trump opponents has erupted at other campaign events. The candidate himself has been accused of creating a permissive environment for anti-protester violence by criticizing protesters when interruptions have occurred at his events. Earlier Friday, protesters clashed with Trump supporters at the Peabody Opera House in St. Louis, Missouri. Demonstrators interrupted Trump's speech eight times while people from both sides scuffled outside the hall. Meanwhile, a journalist filed a police report Friday alleging battery when Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski allegedly grabbed her by the arm and forcefully threw her out of a Trump campaign event at a Trump-owned golf club in Florida. Trump is known for his tough talk and insults, whose targets have included Mexicans, Muslims and immigrants. His comments have energized his backers, while infuriating his opponents who allege racism.