MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Protesters are turning out nationwide to support teachers, firefighters and other public workers holding steady at the Wisconsin Capitol in their fight against legislation aimed at weakening unions.
Union supporters organized rallies from New York to Los Angeles in a show of solidarity Saturday as the protest in Madison entered its 12th day and attracted more than 70,000 people, the largest crowd yet.
Hundreds banged on drums and screamed into bullhorns inside the Capitol as others braved frigid weather and snow. They’re protesting efforts by Republican Gov. Scott Walker to strip nearly all public workers from most collective bargaining rights.
Several thousand protesters gathered in Columbus, Ohio, where lawmakers are considering similar legislation. Large crowds also gathered in other capital cities including Denver; Topeka, Kan.; and Olympia, Wash.
