BROOKLYN, Ohio — Polls have shown the vast majority of Ohioans approve of Gov. Mike DeWine's response to the coronavirus pandemic, including sweeping measures such as the "stay-at-home" order. However, not everyone is pleased.
Citizens across the state are organizing "Free Ohio Now" rallies in protest of what they call DeWine's and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton's "repressive dictates." One of those demonstrations took place in Brooklyn near Interstate 480 and Tiedeman Road.
"The 'Stay Safe' order issued by Acton includes an unnecessary continuation of the stay-at-home directive that restricts individual liberty," organizers . Extending the duration of what amounts to house arrest for healthy Ohio citizens must end immediately."
Similar protests have been popping up all over the country, as opponents become more vocal in their opposition to measures being taken to combat the spread of COVID-19. President Donald Trump has expressed his sympathy with the protestors, although he and federal officials are still encouraging social distancing.