Rally coverage here (video too)

Check back throughout the day for updates on the big rally at the Capitol being put on by teachers unions, senior groups, social service providers and others opposed to budget cuts and supporting a tax increase to balance spending.

Unions officials I spoke with last night said they were sure there'd be well over 10,000 people here just based on the bus reservations, with thousands more likely. Unionized state workers were being encouraged to take their lunch hours to attend the rally.

Gates were set up last night to help guide people into the Capitol entrances.

With that many people going through the metal detectors, patience is sure to wear thin and there will be complaints about it being an inconvenience.

Just a reminder of why those metal detectors are there.

A few years ago a mentally unstable man pulled up in front of the Capitol, walked in with a gun and shot and killed William Wozniak, an unarmed security guard who left behind a wife and children.

Early video from the rally
Here's an early shot of people gathering just east of the Capitol. 2nd Street is closed off for the event.