Last year, there were about 180 known militias in the United States, many in Michigan.
In Allendale, Michigan, protesters have gathered to show their support for local politician Ryan Kelley.
A short distance away, counter-protesters have also gathered.
The two groups do not agree much, but they have one thing in common: they have protection in the form of militias with automatic weapons.
SVT's foreign reporter Fouad Youcefi has met Adam Heikkila, who is a member of one of the largest groups.
- We want to protect the people, not overthrow the government, says Adam Heikkila.