Hundreds of supporters, protesters turn out for Trump rally

President Trump’s rally in Phoenix on Tuesday drew hundreds of people, both to protest and support the commander-in-chief.

The Associated Press reported that several hundred Trump supporters were lined up to enter the rally by 7 p.m., while other pool reporters noted that hundreds had also gathered outside to protest.

Most demonstrations were reportedly peaceful, with few clashes between the two sides. According to the AP skirmishes included some minor pushing and shoving.

Police are in front of a fence separating Trump supporters and protesters. The groups are yelling back and forth at each other. pic.twitter.com/gJ5ZPpx1y3

— Hunter Walker (@hunterw) August 22, 2017

Large crowd peacefully protesting Trump at #PhoenixRally in wake of #Charlottesville/midst of deportations. Follow @clarychka for analysis pic.twitter.com/vhaLiHVndX

— Jim Murphy (@jimmurphySF) August 23, 2017

Trump supporters shouting “Build The Wall” outside #PhoenixRally! pic.twitter.com/cdYASqZaeF

— Gunslinger Girl (@USA_Gunslinger) August 22, 2017 

Trump’s Tuesday speech marked his first campaign event following backlash over his response to a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Va., that turned violent earlier this month.

Phoenix leaders were on high alert ahead of the rally to ensure there were no violent clashes. {mosads}

The nation has been closely monitoring protests following the “Unite the Right” rally in Virginia earlier this month, where white supremacists, white nationalists and neo-Nazis gathered to protest the city of Charlottesville’s decision to remove a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee.

The rally quickly turned violent after a car was driven into a group of peaceful counterprotestors, killing one and injuring at least 19.

The events have sparked a renewed national debate over racism in the U.S.