SAN JOSE, Calif. — Anti-Donald Trump protesters clashed with supporters of the presumptive Republican presidential nominee here Thursday, with some lashing out violently against backers of the mogul in a tense situation that unfolded outside an evening Trump rally.
Police officers in riot gear positioned themselves on the blocks surrounding the rally to deal with the situation. In anticipation of the protests, the San Jose Police Department issued a press release beforehand saying it "recognizes and respects everyone's right to express their First Amendment, and we will do everything possible to ensure the event is safe for all attendees and surrounding neighborhoods."
After the event, the department said in a statement that an officer had been assaulted and "a few" arrests made, but did not provide a specific number. "There has been no significant property damage reported," the statement said.
Reporters documented the situation on social media. Much of the aggression appeared to be directed against Trump supporters.
An ABC News reporter tweeted video of a bloodied Trump supporter who said he was beaten up coming out of the rally.
A CNN reporter posted video of a Trump supporter being taunted and egged, and a picture of anti-Trump protesters burning Trump's signature red "Make America Great Again" hat.
Police officers in riot gear positioned themselves on the blocks surrounding the rally to deal with the situation. In anticipation of the protests, the San Jose Police Department issued a press release beforehand saying it "recognizes and respects everyone's right to express their First Amendment, and we will do everything possible to ensure the event is safe for all attendees and surrounding neighborhoods."
After the event, the department said in a statement that an officer had been assaulted and "a few" arrests made, but did not provide a specific number. "There has been no significant property damage reported," the statement said.
Reporters documented the situation on social media. Much of the aggression appeared to be directed against Trump supporters.
An ABC News reporter tweeted video of a bloodied Trump supporter who said he was beaten up coming out of the rally.
A CNN reporter posted video of a Trump supporter being taunted and egged, and a picture of anti-Trump protesters burning Trump's signature red "Make America Great Again" hat.