Armed protesters storm Michigan state capitol seeking the end of COVID-19 lockdown

Hundreds of protesters, some armed with guns, entered the U.S. Michigan State's capital on Thursday as state lawmakers debated Governor Gretchen Whitmer's proposal to extend the state of emergency. Michigan State Police confirmed the confrontation.

Dozens of demonstrators gathered in the lobby of the capitol building in Lansing, Michigan, demanding to be allowed into the House Chamber. None of them appeared to be wearing masks. State Police blocked their entrance.

State Senator Dayna Polehanki said on Twitter that men with rifles were yelling at her and some of her colleagues had to wear bulletproof vests.

The protest, dubbed the American Patriot Rally, was initiated by a group called Michigan United for Liberty and aimed at pressing the state to reopen for business.