Hundreds of masked members of the neo-fascist group Patriot Front marched through Washington DC on Saturday, protesting under the slogan "Reclaim America" during Independence Day celebrations.
The demonstrators gathered in front of Union Station and walked toward Capitol Hill, carrying banners including a Confederate flag.
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The group appeared to be led by Thomas Rousseau, the founder of the white supremacist organization.
Local authorities tracked the demonstration as it moved through the Eastern Market neighborhood.
The march occurred on the 250th anniversary of the United States' inception, drawing public scrutiny and local counterprotesters.
"Every single one of you justifies the fucking right to abortion," shouted a man with a bullhorn at Patriot Front members.
The Metropolitan Police Department monitored the demonstration to ensure public safety while acknowledging constitutional rights. The department released an official statement regarding the morning activities.
"MPD recognizes the rights of individuals to peacefully express their views and remains committed to maintaining public safety and security for DC residents and visitors," the department said.
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Federal officials also addressed the demonstration during national television broadcasts the following day. US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum commented on the group's presence during an interview.
"What they stand for is nothing I could possibly agree with – but one of the foundational principles of the United States which makes democracy messy is free speech," Burgum said.
The Anti-Defamation League has previously raised concerns about the group's operational capabilities. Researchers noted that Patriot Front operates with high efficiency in public relations and logistics.
"No other white supremacist group operating in the US today is able to match Patriot Front’s ability to produce media, ability to mobilize across the country and ability to finance," said Morgan Moon, an investigative researcher with the ADL Center on Extremism.
"That’s what makes them a particular concern," Moon added.
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Patriot Front was established in 2017 after the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. The organization previously marched at the Virginia Beach oceanfront during Memorial Day weekend.
