Dozens protest GOP gubernatorial candidate amid controversial campaign tour
ATLANTA - Dozens of angry protestors went head to head with a handful of State Senator Michael Williams' supporters during the GOP gubernatorial candidate’s controversial "Deportation Bus" campaign tour Wednesday afternoon.
"This is a great turnout of people who love refugees and immigrants, who recognize that the diversity in Clarkston has been a strength for our community," said Clarkston Mayor Ted Terry.
Demonstrators crowded Williams' campaign caravan as the politician pulled up to a campaign stop in Clarkston. Protestors organized the counter-rallies after a campaign ad featuring the gubernatorial candidate's "Deportation Bus" which is covered in messages spelling out his stance on immigration reform, appeared on YouTube Tuesday.
Critics worry the messages written on the bus like "Danger: Murderers, rapists, kidnappers, child molesters and other criminals on board," is dangerous rhetoric.
"I have seen it and I think it's disgusting. I don't know how people can think like that in 2018," said one Williams protestor.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Williams insisted his message is being misconstrued.
"This country was based on immigration and I am for legal immigration. What I am against is illegal immigration, people that show a complete disrespect for our laws."
Williams is running against Casey Cagle, Eddie Hayes, Hunter Hill, Brian Kemp, Clay Tippins, and Marc Urbach in the Republican Primary.
RELATED: Georgia GOP Gubernatorial candidate's controversial Deportation Bus tour