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Watch: Trump speaks in Jamestown for the 400th anniversary of democracy in Virginia

Posted at 9:00 AM, Jul 30, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-30 18:04:22-04

JAMESTOWN, Va. - President Trump, along with many Virginia leaders, visited the Jamestown Settlement on Tuesday to attend the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of a representative legislative body meeting in America.

The commemoration and Trump's speech were part of a variety of scheduled events at the historic location from early morning until around noon.

President Trump spoke at the event around 11 a.m., thanking both Democrats and Republicans who represent Virginia, including Gov. Ralph Northam,  Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and Speaker Kirk Cox.

"That is why after 400 years of American democracy, we have returned here to this place (Jamestown) to declare to all the world that the United States of America and the great Commonwealth of Virginia are just...getting...started," said Trump during his speech.

During the president's speech, a protester, who News 3 has confirmed was Virginia Delegate Ibraheem Samirah, interrupted Trump during his speech, causing reactions from the audience that included chants of "Trump" from parts of the crowd.

Democratic lawmakers had previously threatened to boycott. A spokesperson for the Virginia House Democratic caucus said it was up to individual lawmakers to decide if they want to attend, but leadership will not be there.

The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus also announced a boycott of the Jamestown celebration, gathering for a counter-event in Richmond.

Download the News 3 App for more coverage of President Trump's visit.