CENTRAL OHIO -- Thousands of Americans who are frustrated with mushrooming government spending and growing national deficit used Tax Day for tea parties.
NBC 4 GOT ANSWERS on the Wednesday evening demonstration.
Thousands of people crowded on the Statehouse lawn, in Columbus, to voice their concerns.
Colorful posters cried out against excessive government spending and the economic stimulus plan.
The tea party theme alluded to the historical Boston Tea Party but also stood for Taxed Enough Already.
"It's not about Republicans, Democrats, Conservatives or Liberals. It's about listening to the people. It's about following what the founders founded this country on, what they envisioned for us," demonstrator Grant Rice said.
"I'm here because of high taxes that's going on, and I think it's ridiculous, and I think it's time people started standing up against it," another attendee said.
Former Republican U.S. Representative and gubernatorial hopeful John Kasich spoke and argued big government and more debt will not lead to prosperity.
The Ohio Democratic Party didn't discount the demonstration, but Chairman Chris Redfern said 60 percent of Ohioans will receive a big share of tax reductions thanks to the Obama administration.
"It's good for folks to get together with like minds and like issues. What my concerns are are the motivations of the leaders of these particular events," Redfern said.
At least 50 people stood on State Street in front of Westerville's City Hall, holding signs, chanting, and demanding tax relief and no ban on guns.
Columbus and Westerville were two of many cities that hosted tea parties around the nation.
Thousands of Americans joined rallies and meetings, waving American flags and protest signs. Some even dangled tea bags from their coats.
For additional information, stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com -- Where Accuracy Matters.
To submit a story idea or news tip, e-mail stories@nbc4i.com.
MORE: NBC 4 Local News | Local Crime News
NBC 4 SPORTS: Sports News, Video
NBC 4 POLITICS: Headlines, Interactives & Video
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement