HARRISBURG — Hundreds of gun rights supporters took their cause to the state Capitol on Monday, pushing for an agenda that includes looser rules for carrying concealed weapons.

A “Make the Second Amendment Great Again” rally in the Rotunda brought together state lawmakers, sheriffs and gun rights enthusiasts for what has become an annual event.

“The right to defend yourself is a God-given right. It is not even given by man,” said Rosco Bickel, a 65-year-old retired machinist from near Oil City.

Like many others at the rally, Bickel came to Harrisburg with a group, in his case gun owners from Clarion County.

House Speaker Mike Turzai, a Republican expected to announce a run for governor next year, told attendees he and his allies have been able to beat back anti-gun proposals.