Trump faces protests as he visits Dayton

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Protesters greeted President Donald Trump's arrival in the city today, blaming his incendiary rhetoric for inflaming political and racial tensions in the country, as he visited survivors of last weekend's mass shootings and saluted first responders.

The president and first lady Melania Trump began their visit at the hospital where many of the victims of Sunday's attack were treated. The White House said Trump would be thanking first responders and hospital staff, as well as meeting with victims and their families.

Outside Miami Valley Hospital, at least 200 protesters gathered, hoping to send a message to the president they want action on gun control. Some said he was not welcome in their city.

It was a highly usual display of anger and hostility at a time of national tragedy, driven by critics who say Trump's own words may have contributed to last weekend's shootings in Ohio and El Paso, Texas.

It was an assertion Trump rejected as he left the White House, strongly criticizing those who say he bears some responsibility for the nation's divisions.

"My critics are political people," Trump said, noting the apparent political leanings of the shooter in the Dayton killings and suggesting the man was supportive of Democrats.

"Had nothing to do with President Trump," Trump said. "So these are people that are looking for political gain."

He also denied his rhetoric had anything to do with the violence, claiming instead that he "brings people together. Our country is doing incredibly well."