Ashland rally supports Harney County residents, calls for militia to leave

ASHLAND, Ore. — A rally was held in Ashland today to show support for the residents in Harney County — while asking the armed protesters to leave the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

This is the third week group has been occupying the federal building.

According to their leader, Ammon Bundy, the militia is protesting federal land use policies.

Here in Southern Oregon, groups like “Oregon Action” are asking the protesters to leave and respect the residents of Harney County.

“The community there is overwhelmingly saying we don’t want these people here, you need to leave, you’re not helping us,” said organizer Alex Budd. “You’re making things much worse in our community, and the militias are not respecting that call, and so we’re also here today to stand with them and show support for the people of Harney County.”

Tonight, Oregon Live is reporting that Friday’s negotiations did not result in any action.

Meanwhile, Governor Kate Brown is calling on the FBI to end to protest. She says the standoff is costing tax payers about $100,000 a week.

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