Protesters clash with police outside White House (VIDEO)

Police have confronted protesters outside the White House, where officers in riot gear are trying to push demonstrators away from the US president's residence.

The crowds have been trying to make their way into the pedestrian part of Pennsylvania Avenue outside the White House fence.

Bottles were thrown and police allegedly responded by using batons and tear gas.

Local journalist Alejandro Alvarez reported that police gave several warnings to the crowds to disperse before moving on them.

Some rioters smashed Secret Service cars and spray-painted obscenities. Some buildings in the vicinity were also vandalized, according to ABC reporter Kevin Lewis.

Protesters continued to demonstrate after police moved them to a side street and erected a barrier. There were also rallies outside the Capitol building and along other streets in downtown DC on Saturday.

President Donald Trump had been in Florida watching the SpaceX rocket launch with two US astronauts, but he was in his residence on Friday night when protesters rallied outside. He later complemented the Secret Service for handling the demonstrators, who he said would have been greeted by "vicious dogs" if they approached the fence. 

Like this story? Share it with a friend!