Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump drew a crowd when he hosted Saturday Night Live, but they weren't all happy with the the business mogul's return to NBC. NY1's Polly Kreisman filed the following report.

Donald Trump has been a surprise hit in some presidential polls, but his appearance on NBC's Saturday Night Live has been anything but for some.

"He calls immigrants rapists and criminals," said Karla Reyes of the ANSWER Coalition. "My family is an immigrant, family, and that's not true. That's not what we are."

Reyes is referring to controversial comments made by the business mogul on the 2016 campaign trail earlier this year. Trump has taken heat for the remarks, including from some in his own party. Others defend his right to say what he wants.

"Donald Trump has the right to do 'SNL,'" said one New Yorker. "Freedom of speech."

Dozens of protesters say the show should not have offered Trump the hosting gig. Many gathered first at Trump Tower and marched down to Rockefeller Center. The 49th Street entrance was crowded with those against Trump's appearance, those for it, and others who were just watching.

Kreisman: These people are protesting those people. What do you think?
Person at Rockefeller Center: We think this is a great expression of freedom of speech. We appreciate it that one side can say what they think and this side can say, 'Get over it.'"

NBC and Trump went their separate ways earlier this year, with the network replacing him as host of "The Celebrity Apprentice." It then dropped his Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants in protest of his immigration positions. But now, it seemed to get as much criticism as the candidate himself for having him back on the air, if only for one night.

"There's nothing funny about what he says," said one protester.

"It's all about the ratings," said another person at the scene. "NBC's not stupid. They want ratings."

As for the ratings in the presidential race, the website Real Clear Politics shows Trump with a slight lead in an average of national polls of GOP candidates for the White House. He will take the stage again Tuesday night in the latest Republican debate.