Fights Erupt Between Protesters, Trump Supporters In Beverly Hills As President Attends Fundraising Event
BEVERLY HILLS (CBSLA) — Multiple fights erupted in Beverly Hills Tuesday night as supporters of President Trump and protesters clashed amid the president's arrival in Los Angeles.
The fights broke out between the groups in front of the Beverly Hills Hotel after an American flag was lit on fire, reported CBSLA's Chris Holmstrom.
A lot of angry people out here as President Trump hosts a fundraiser in Beverly Hills. This is one of several fights in the last 15 minutes. #CBSLA pic.twitter.com/aim0sDriLR
— Chris Holmstrom (@ChrisVHolmstrom) September 18, 2019
Beverly Hills police were in the area, and responded to each fight, ultimately having to separate the two groups. Several people were initially detained, but none were arrested following the scuffles.
"All my years, I've never seen that," said Gregg Donovan, a Trump supporter, said. "I was very disappointed in both sides. I took a neutral stance. I just stood there with my sign the whole time, but the burning of the flag really hurt."
Another man who was there with the protesters said that he understood the frustrations of those who were also there protesting.
"I've still got family members who are struggling to pay for their medication," Tony Blackstone, a Trump protester said. "They're elderly, and they have to decide whether to pay for their medication or to pay for their bill, and that's sad."
Trump was nearby attending a fundraiser hosted by real estate developer Geoffrey Palmer, who was a major Republican donor during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Tickets to the fundraiser reportedly start at $1,000 for individuals and go up to $100,000 for couples who will also get to attend a VIP reception and have a photo opportunity with the president.
The Beverly Hills fundraising event will be one of four across the state during this trip, and the GOP says they expect to raise more than $15 million.