Lansing, April 16 (RHC)-- Right-wingers in the U.S. state of Michigan are defying stay-at-home orders despite the threat of COVID-19 infection.  Dubbed "Operation Gridlock," the Wednesday protest was organized by the so-called Michigan Conservative Coalition and Michigan Freedom Fund.

Activists staged protests outside the state capitol to defy Governor Gretchen Whitmer's extended stay-at-home order by chanting “Lock her up!”   Many carried American flags, Trump 2020 posters and semi-automatic weapons, including AR-15s.

"These fringe groups have one goal: Attack Gov. Whitmer for anything, even if it means sending a dangerous message about the importance of social distancing during a global pandemic," said Lonnie Scott, the executive director of advocacy group Progress Michigan.

A new group has also been created called Michiganders Against Excessive Quarantine to defy lockdown.

"Normally we wouldn't give these childish games the time of day," added Scott.  "But we think it's important that the people of Michigan know who these people really are and the fact that a group supported by one of Trump's cabinet members, Betsy DeVos, is at the helm of this dangerous ship."

The protesters were seen not adhering to social distancing guidelines and most without face-masks.  Some apparently wore face-masks only to hide their identities.  

The U.S. state of Michigan is facing one of the country's fastest growing infection rates for the novel coronavirus with more than 1,768 deaths.