Atlanta protesters rally at Georgia Capitol building for Stop the Steal protest

Updated: Jan. 6, 2021 at 10:12 PM EST
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ATLANTA, Ga. (WTVM) - Protestors stormed the U.S. Capitol Wednesday where members of Congress were in the midst of certifying President-elect Joe Biden’s victory.

Chaos ensued as protestors fought back against law enforcement. At least one person was shot at the scene and later pronounced dead after being rushed to a hospital.

In Georgia, protesters echoed a similar message in Atlanta with a more peaceful approach, demanding that state leaders give them what they called a “fair election.”

“Our accusations are voter fraud, illegal votes, things were not done right,” Brian Smith said. “The laws were changed last minute through courts and the secretary of state, and that is not constitutional.”

Protesters who gathered in front of the Georgia Capitol building could be seen waving Trump and American flags, and shouting “stop the steal!”

“When they are in power seats like they are here in the Capitol building, we lose faith in the integrity of the elections system,” Harry James said.

The reactions come a day after Georgia voters cast their ballots in two Senate runoff races. According to the Associated Press, both Democratic candidates Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock are projected to win.

Many of the protesters suggested this win, which now gives the Democratic party control over the Senate, only further supports their claims.

As a precautionary measure, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and his senior staff were evacuated to a secure location.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp addressed in a media briefing, calling these actions unacceptable for the Peach State.

“Today, I will be extending the previous executive order which mobilizes the national guard until Monday,” Kemp said. “They will be called up as needed.”

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