Chambana Sun

Protesters gathered at the Illinois Capitol building demanding that Gov. J.B. Pritzker reopen the economy as one lawmaker said the governor needs to be transparent with state residents.

Approximately 150 protesters gathered this week and chanted, "Freedom Over Fear" and "Reopen Illinois" outside the Illinois Capitol, some carrying signs reading, “Free Illinois.” according to the Week.com.

The rally's organizer, Matthew Walder, told the Week.com, "We've honestly been watching the press conferences from President Trump and Governor J.B. Pritzker and just been getting more and more infuriated every time we watch them."

More protests and rallies were held on May 1.

"As elected officials, we swore an oath to uphold the Constitution. Preserving the rights of citizens should not be taken lightly as it is the primary responsibility of government,” state Rep. Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) said via email.

“The governor should be open, honest and transparent about what is happening and what criteria will be used to determine when and how the lock down will come to an end,” said Halbrook.

Pritzker extended the state’s stay-at-home order until May 30 and announced on April 30 that some restrictions would be lifted beginning May 1.

Fishing will now be allowed with no more than two people, golf courses will be opened with social distancing and state parks will begin a phased reopening, reported NBC Chicago.

Garden centers, nurseries and greenhouses may now reopen as essential business, as well as animal grooming service. Each must follow social distance requirements. Retail stores may only take online orders and provide curbside pickup or delivery.

The piecemeal reopening by Pritzker comes on the heels of the protests. Halbrook said it’s the government’s job to protect constitutional rights.

“The goal should be a return to normalcy,” said Halbrook. “It is not the job of government to protect citizens from all risks. It is the job of government to protect our constitutional rights and freedoms and these are the principles the protesters want to see their elected officials take seriously."