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20 Arrested At Michigan Ave. Demonstration Over State Budget Impasse

(CBS) -- Chicago Police say 20 people were arrested at a noontime protest on North Michigan Avenue where dozens demonstrated against politicians' handling of the state budget.

Sidewalk protests: OK.

But when almost two dozen demonstrators and their signs spilled over onto Michigan Avenue at Illinois Street and refused to budge because of their outage over the state budget they were arrested.

Most of them were seniors - like 77-year-old Gene Horcher.

"It's not pleasant being in a jail. That's a concern. But it's worth it because we're trying to organize people to get no cuts and a good budget. And get a progressive revenue package."

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Standing by to support the protesters: State Representative Greg Harris of Chicago, who says yes - Springfield is to blame.

"We're all part of the problem until we pass a budget. The House passed a budget. I and others have said we need more revenue."

The protesters who were arrested were detained briefly on the sidewalk, ticketed and then let go.

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