LANSING, MI — Outgoing state Rep. Dave Agema, R-Grandville, took to Facebook on Tuesday, Dec. 11, to say he was "enjoying" protests by union supporters against right-to-work legislation.

Agema, an Air Force veteran and former American Airlines pilot, wrote on Facebook that "(r)iot police on horses are now macing and pushing back the crowds who tried to storm the building."

Full coverage: Right to work makes its way through Michigan Legislature

"I fell (sic) like I'm back in the military- I'm rather enjoying this," wrote Agema, a term-limited and outspoken lawmaker with strong Tea Party ties. "It brings back memories."

He went on to explain to followers commenting on the post that he does not enjoy riots, but that when "riots occur, its the putting down of inappropriate behavior that is rewarding. That is what we did in the military but with countries and tyrants."

Upwards of 10,000 protestors took the Capitol building and lawn Tuesday to protest a push by Republicans in control of the Legislature to pass right to work bills.

The bills have been derided by critics as political meddling during the lame-duck session. Supporters contend such laws, which prohibit compulsory union dues, create jobs.

Their passage and ultimate signing by Gov. Rick Snyder is all but considered inevitable.

Lansing TV station WLNS first reported Agema's remarks. He voted in favor of the bills.

Update 3:02 p.m.: One protestor was maced after a crowd grabbed hold of a Michigan State Police trooper, the agency tweeted from its public affairs account Tuesday.

Media reports on the ground indicated others, including former U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer, D-Battle Creek, complained of suffering the effects of mace during the protest.

Zane McMillin may be reached through email and Twitter.