COLUMBUS, Ohio — For the first time in recent memory, an Ohio governor's State of the State speech is expected to be met with raucous political demonstrations on the Statehouse steps.
Newly elected Republican Gov. John Kasich was to deliver his first major policy address at noon Tuesday. State lawmakers, justices, statewide officials and Kasich's Cabinet are attending.
Democrats and labor groups have scheduled a rally to begin 30 minutes beforehand, with loud music and chanting likely. Thousands of union laborers, teachers, firefighters and police officers are expected in the fourth week of protests of a bill limiting collective bargaining rights for public sector workers.
The bill is up in House committee Tuesday afternoon.
Tea party supporters plan a counter-protest aimed at supporting Kasich and the Republicans who are pushing union reforms.
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