- Atecia Robinson
- Bill Hurley, a St.Pete native, invites Romney supporters to walk the red carpet
In the wake of the upcoming Republican National Convention, emotions continue to rise regarding the GOP nominee, Mitt Romney.
Outside of a campaign event at Mirror Lake Lyceumon Wednesday where Romney was set to discuss his economic philosophy with his supporters, the “ninety-nine percent” rallied against the big business ideals he hopes to employ if he gains the presidency.
During the peaceful protest of about 30 people, activist groups such as Awake Pinellas and Florida Consumer Action Network invited Romney to walk across their red carpet with, “we are the 99 percent” painted the dripping soggy fabric. A few of the protesters laid down on the wet pavement underneath the cloth signifying a red carpet event, which was a sort of metaphor for the way Romney gained significant wealth—by stepping on the back of the working class.
Before Romney arrived at Mirror Lake Lyceum, garbage cans and fire hydrants in the area were painted to beautify the area in preparation for Romney and his supporters. The entire homeless population, that arrived to denounce the falsehoods in Romney’s belief that his lengthy business experience makes him a forerunner in the election for president, was cleared from the area.
Under a downpour of heavy rains, Romney’s supporters entered the building to hear what they felt were words of wisdom, though due to limited space, some were left out in the rain and watched through pair of glass doors.
- Atecia Robinson
- A small group who didn't get inside the small meeting hall stood outside to get a glimpse of who they hoped would soon be their president.
This article appears in May 17-23, 2012.