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John Daley ReportingProtesters, many of them angry about US immigration policy, vented their frustrations today at Mexico's President. They gathered at the Capitol to make their voices heard.
It's been mostly a good will tour for President Fox, but there are people who are obviously not happy he came here and not happy there are so many undocumented Mexican immigrants here. This morning, protesters expressed that emotion quite clearly.
For all the diplomatic warmth seen on President Fox's visit, there's a raw edge of emotion here too, expressed by protesters who came to make a statement on Utah's Capitol Hill.
Wally McCormack, Protester: "We want representation. We're not getting it from our Governor Huntsman. We are not getting it when we have our opposition, who is standing up for the illegals, walk right in front of us and go into that other building into where the governor and everybody else is taking place. And we want equal representation."
Laurie Lisonbee, Protester: "I'm here because I'm very concerned about the lack of border security in our country."
One target is President Bush for not doing enough.
Deborah Connor, Protester: "I think President Bush ought to be deported. Personally, I think he's committed treason against the American people."
The climax of today's event happened as President Fox crossed the courtyard and got an earful. Inside, he ignores critics, instead offers thanks to Utah and its governor.
Vicente Fox, President of Mexico: "And for this exceptional, exceptional reception. We have had as of yesterday and today, surprise after surprise, everything in the right direction. Today we are more friends, more neighbors and more partners than we were before."
Protesters say they'd like to extend an olive branch eventually, but only after illegal immigrants are stopped and sent home.
Deborah Connor: "We'd like to help his people in his country. We'll do everything we can to help Mexican people in his country, but he needs to take care of his own country."
Despite the strong feelings, it was a peaceful protest. Using a metal security fence and large contingent of UHP troopers, police kept protesters at a distance and they report no problems.
