A global backlash against President Donald Trump’s executive order banning immigration from several Muslim nations saw pockets of protest erupt across Maine on Sunday.
Protesters are calling on Maine’s congressional representatives to denounce Trump’s order barring any citizen from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia from entering the United States.
Already, members of Maine’s congressional delegation have spoken out against the travel ban, according to the Sun Journal.
“The worldwide refugee ban set forth in the executive order is overly broad and implementing it will be immediately problematic,” said U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican.
Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King believes the administration’s actions “don’t protect us, but actually compromise our nation’s security,” said Scott Ogden, his spokesman.
Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree also criticized the order, while Republican Rep. Bruce Poliquin was noncommittal in response.
Around 10:30 a.m., a crowd of protesters gathered outside Portland City Hall to protest Trump’s order, according to Portland-based television station CBS 13.
Protesters asking @SenatorCollins to join them in a town hall meeting. Want to explain to her what #Maine values really are. #WGME pic.twitter.com/MavBiGD7ct
— Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
#TrafficAlert – Part of Congress Street is closed in front of city hall as this protest continues. #mepolitics #WGME pic.twitter.com/eF715tQQzq — Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
#VIDEO – Protesters now chanting. #wgme #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/1GQPtL0TUF
— Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
Across the city, another protest began around noon at the Portland International Jetport around noon, according to a Facebook page for the event.
A second protest in Portland today – at the airport. One counter protester is here, wearing his #MAGA hat. #NEWSCENTERnow pic.twitter.com/YlOP6NMcxv
— Kristina Rex (@KristinaRex) January 29, 2017
This group has taken over baggage claim at @portlandjetport. Peaceful so far. @PolicePortland keeping a watchful eye. #WGME pic.twitter.com/PAcGq9gXwK
— Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
Here’s a look at the group gathered at @portlandjetport. #mepolitics #Maine #WGME pic.twitter.com/69Xh2HEyH9 — Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
#NEW – Group of protesters have gathered at @portlandjetport to protest @POTUS. #WGME #mepolitics pic.twitter.com/g5wQFlU9jS
— Dan Lampariello (@DanWGME) January 29, 2017
Another protest is being held at the Bangor International Airport starting at 11 a.m., according to a Facebook page for the event.