Donald Trump Protesters Block Arizona Road Ahead of Rally

FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ - Protesters in Arizona have blocked a road leading to a Donald Trump rally, several local media outlets have reported. Shea Boulevard in Fountain Hills is blocked ahead of the rally scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. local time.

Aerial video from the scene shows traffic backed up for miles.

Trump is in Arizona for rallies in Fountain Hills and Tucson ahead of the Republican presidential primary on Tuesday. AZ Central reported authorities gave protesters a first warning around 10:20 a.m. and planned on giving two more warnings over 10 minute periods before they would begin arresting demonstrators.

In Arizona, Trump and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz are expected to battle in a tight contest. While polls show Trump ahead, Cruz's chances of winning are about the same.

“I think Cruz will pull the upset,” Kurt Davis, a neutral GOP operative in the state and close confidante of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) told the Hill. “He’s the only candidate with any kind of organization out here and they have him positioned to spring the upset. They just have to deliver.”

The demonstration in Arizona is not a new sight for Trump's rallies as the events are often marked with protests, name calling and even violence. Roughly two weeks ago, violence erupted at a Trump rally in Chicago that led to its cancellation for security purposes.

Meanwhile protesters also gathered in New York City outside Trump Tower in Columbus Circle, planning to march towards the building where the billionaire lives.

Return to Patch for updates on this developing story.