Anti-war, anti-Bush protest draws hundreds to downtown Seattle

Several hundred protesters filled Pine Street in downtown Seattle today to protest the war in Iraq and the Bush administration's stance on everything from Supreme Court nomination to reproductive rights.

The protest was organized by the Seattle chapter of World Can't Wait, a group started in New York City in June but that leaders say has since spread to more than 60 major cities across the country. High school and college students walked out of class to join the rally, which organizers say is dedicated to ousting President Bush.

"People who steal elections and believe they're on a mission from God will not go without a fight," said lead organizer Maggie Lawless.

Police arrested one man involved in the anti-Bush demonstration this morning at Westlake Park on suspicion of pedestrian interference and obstructing police, said Seattle police spokesman Rich Pruitt. A second man, who was not involved in the demonstration, was recognized by a state Department of Corrections officer who happened to be downtown while the rally was underway and was arrested for an apparent parole violation, Pruitt said.

As demonstration continued down Third Avenue, protesters motioned to office workers to join them in the streets.

Earlier, Lawless told the crowd that a candleight rally and march planned for tonight at Seattle Central Community College would go on despite the lack of a city permit. That rally is scheduled at 6 p.m.

Seattle Police spokeswoman Debra Brown said organizers have been in touch with the department. Officers will escort protesters from the college to a location on 12th Avenue.

"They know what the rules are," Brown said. "If there's a problem we'll make a decision then."