Residents or visitors walking down Main Street might have been caught off guard Wednesday afternoon.

A protest against illegal immigration quickly turned into a debate by folks on both sides of the issue, complete with chants and signs.

The verbal sparring match lasted the better part of two hours, with local law enforcement saying no problems were caused.

And the crowd seemed to remain peaceful, with the exception of some inappropriate finger gestures by both protesters and those passing by.

Wednesday’s protest isn’t the first on illegal immigration, and it won’t be the last.

Here’s our take.

We respect the rights of both sides to organize such events, just as long as no laws are broken.