Hundreds Gather at Tea Party Protest

ATLANTA (MyFOX ATLANTA) - Hundreds of Tea Party supporters rallied in downtown Atlanta Monday night. The Tea Party Express 2 is crossing the country as part of the grassroots conservative movement.

While there've been several Tea Party events held in the Metro Atlanta area in the past several months, many people said Monday's was their first and they came out because they felt it was time to speak out against the federal government.

The national traveling tour drew supporters from across the region.

"I'm very upset with Congress and the way things are going. Our country is so in debt it is ridiculous," said Marie Hendrickson.

A huge crowd of sign waving enthusiasts greeted the caravan of conservative speakers at the state capitol, far outnumbering the handful of people who disagree with the Tea Party supporters.

"They don't represent all of America. We need to stand up for the other side and show these people are angry," said Greg Maye.

Those participating in the Tea Party said they want less government spending, the end to the bailouts, and are lower taxes. Many participants said they were outraged over the recent passage of the House healthcare reform plan.

"The House of Representatives passed one of the greatest travesties in the history of our country," said Tea Party participant John Hughes.

Georgia gubernatorial candidate, Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine was one of the featured speaker's at Monday's event.

Monday's Atlanta stop is part of a national tour spanning 38 cities in three weeks.