Trump inauguration emotional for both sides

David Louie Image
ByDavid Louie KGO logo
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Trump inauguration emotional for both sides
Emotions ran high for both Democrats and Republicans in the South Bay after the 45th president, Donald Trump, was inaugurated.

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- The inauguration of President Trump turned into an emotional day that was happy for some and frustrating for others. Those sentiments were reflected in two different events in the South Bay.

RELATED: Anti-Trump protesters take to streets in SF

A celebration started early Friday morning and is likely to run well into the night at the Socialight Restaurant and Wine Bar in downtown Campbell. Supporters of Donald Trump have taken over a large section of it-their eyes trained on big screen TVs to catch the events in Washington.

Organizer Lee Duncan, who identifies as a conservative, and is an alternate to the Republican Central Committee is says it's getting easier to be a supporter of the new president. "I think it will be a lot easier, and think he will gain support based on what he's going to do, what he's promised to do and his background," he said. "He's a brilliant guy."

More than 500 protesters marched in downtown San Jose, concerned that the new administration won't embrace their concerns over immigration policy, LGBTQ rights, and other issues.

"I hope that the new President is going to hear the people," said march participant Nassim Nour. "He is our new President, so we have to demand that he fights injustice, that he doesn't take away our civil rights."

The march began at Cesar Chavez Park then proceeded to the San Jose Federal building and San Jose City Hall. Passing showers didn't dampen their cause.

RELATED: UC Berkeley campus Republicans clash with protesters

A participant, who declined to share her last name, acknowledged their grievances might not get the president's attention in Washington. "I know we're all listening to each other, but we're not the ones we need to convince," said Debra. "I don't know if we can convince him. All we can do is resist."