Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Controversial TV Host to Hold Rally in Washington VOA News 28 August 2010 Glenn Beck, center, shakes hands with supporters at the site of the Restoring Honor rally by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, on 27 Aug 2010 Photo: AP Glenn Beck, center, shakes hands with supporters at the site of the Restoring Honor rally by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, on 27 Aug 2010 Thousands of people are expected to gather in Washington Saturday for a rally organized by controversial American broadcaster Glenn Beck. Organizers say the "Restoring Honor" rally will pay tribute to American military personnel and others who embody the "nation's founding principles of integrity, truth and honor." Former Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is expected to address the crowd. The event takes place on the 47th anniversary of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I have a Dream Speech," and at the same site - the steps of the memorial honoring President Abraham Lincoln. Beck insists the timing is coincidental. But critics, including civil rights activists, have questioned the broadcaster's motives. The radio and television host is known for his polarizing viewpoints. Notably, he once called U.S. President Barack Obama a "racist," saying he had a "hatred for white people." Beck, who hosts a nightly television show on Fox News, is popular among Republicans and supporters of the ultra-conservative Tea Party movement. But he says the event is not political. A leading Democrat, Representative Chris Van Hollen, dismissed that assertion, telling reporters Friday that the event is blatantly political. Civil rights activists are planning a rally nearby to honor the anniversary of King's speech on racial equality. African-American rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton and others will march from a local high school to the site of a future memorial to King. .