Concerned voters use freedom of speech on Independence Day

Dressed in red, white and blue, voters celebrated Independence Day with freedom of speech – both verbal and written out on signs.

“It’s a good thing to remember our Declaration of Independence and the freedoms we enjoy in this country,” said Stan Rush.

With iced tea in hand, people by the dozens showed up for their own TEA Party in Danville’s Ballou Park – that’s ‘taxed enough already.’ The men and women were frustrated with government spending.

“Our main point is that we want to get the message out to our elected representatives that we’re here,” said Nigel Coleman, the chairman of Danville’s Tea Party.

Officials like Danny Marshall, the Republican incumbent for the 14th district in the Virginia House of Delegates showed up to speak.

“The Virginia General Assembly cannot have deficit spending,” he told the crowd.

The last time tea parties like these were held was tax day back in April.

“What the national organization wanted to do was have some more for communities that didn’t have the opportunity on the 15th. Since we didn’t have an organization on April 15th, we decided to go for today,” Coleman said.

Ten On Your Side talked to Seward Anderson, Marshall’s democratic opponent for the House of Delegates. He believes in saving money and said there are placed where the government can tighten the budget. Anderson also said he’s working on a plan to reduce taxes in certain areas.

Many concerns by the voters were aimed at Congressman Tom Perriello, but he didn’t’ want to comment.

These men and women have their own opinions; it’s just a way to get their frustrations off their chest.

“I think it’s time to come out and speak my mind and be heard, get active in our government,’ said Todd Lancaster.