ST. LOUIS – “The People’s Convoy” rolled through St. Louis today on its cross-country trek to Washington, D.C. Overpasses throughout the area were filled with suppoters cheering on the convoy as it traveled I-44 to I-270, over the Mississippi River, on its way to Indianapolis for its next stop. The purpose behind the convoy is to demonstrate and demand an end to coronavirus mandates.
One participant in the convoy tells Spectrum News there were 170 trucks and vehicles taking part. The group pulled into a parking lot in St. Roberts Monday for a rally and was greeted by a crowd that had dozens of American, Canadian, and Trump flags on display. Former Gov. Eric Greitens, who is also running for U.S. Senate, spoke at the rally.
The group, one of several U.S. convoys organized online and modeled on the recent Canadian truckers’ protests, left Big Cabin, Oklahoma Monday morning for Missouri.
The Illinois State Police is cautioning drivers ahead of the convoy’s arrival in the state. Officials say there is concern the convoy will cause traffic delays and potentially crashes.
“Those who choose to participate in events that intentionally endanger the public and violate Illinois law will be subject to the enforcement of applicable laws and could potentially be held liable for traffic crashes occurring as a result of their action,” said Illinois State Police Division of Patrol Colonel Margaret McGreal.
The convoy left California on Feb. 23 with about two dozen trucks and a number of other vehicles. People have lined the interstates and overpasses waving flags and signs to show their support. Convoy vehicles carried signs with slogans such as “Legalize freedom” and “Let them breathe.”
“To the truck drivers around the world: Now is your time to stand up. Now is your time to usher in a renaissance time of freedom,” truck driver and event organizer Brian Brase told the rally. “Do not bow down.”
The group pledged a “100% safe, lawful and peaceful journey” that will “terminate in the vicinity of the DC area, but will NOT be going into DC proper.” Arrival was scheduled for March 5.
The U.S. Capitol Police are beefing up security ahead of the group’s arrival in the Washington, D.C. area. The police have beefed up security for planned protects in the area since the Jan. 6 unrest last year.