FRANKFORT, Ky. — Just three days after a violent pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol in Washington, D.C., hundreds of armed protesters gathered in Frankfort for a rally in front of Kentucky's Capitol.
The self-described militia groups gathered in Frankfort around noon on Saturday, with several sporting long guns and zip ties.
As the House and Senate debate SB1 and HB1 simultaneously, a large crowd of protesters has gathered outside the Capitol. Many are armed pic.twitter.com/SqhulTvpGI
— Joe Ragusa (@JoeRagusa) January 9, 2021
A handful of demonstrators had the Three Percenters insignia on their clothes. That's one of the groups Gov. Andy Beshear held responsible for hanging him in effigy and protesting on the steps of the Governor’s Mansion in May.
Beshear denounced Saturday's protesters on Twitter, saying he wouldn't be bullied.
"Three days after domestic terrorists attacked our U.S. Capitol, there was a militia rally in Frankfort," Beshear wrote. "They brought zip ties. We will not be intimidated. We will not be bullied. America is counting on the real patriots. Those who condemn hate and terror when they see it."
Firearms are allowed on the Capitol grounds and in much of the Capitol building, but with COVID-19 precautions in-place, the building is closed to those without appointments.
Kentucky State Police presence was increased at the Capitol building following Wednesday's chaotic insurrection.