More than 1000 people in Utica, New Hartford, and Herkimer Rallies Declare “Hands Off!” to Trump and Musk
April 5 called single day largest of action against second Trump administration
UTICA – On Saturday, April 5th, more than 600 people in Utica, over 600 in New Hartford, and over 100 in Herkimer took to the streets as part of a nationwide day of peaceful protest, the largest single day of action since Donald Trump was sworn in for a second term. Locally organized by Indivisible Mohawk Valley, participants called on Trump and Elon Musk to take their hands off the programs that the Mohawk Valley relies upon. Nationally organized by Indivisible and more than 150 partners, there were over 1,000 rallies in all 50 states.
With Trump and congressional Republicans doubling down on their agenda to gut essential services, everyday Central New Yorkers are sending a clear message: Take your hands off our healthcare, our Social Security, our civil rights, our freedom, and our education, to underscore the real-life consequences of these policies and show how our communities are fighting back saying get your hands off our data, the post office, and our libraries; we support our veterans, senior citizens and the disabled; stop the outrageous tariffs and stop intimidating our allies.
Despite the cold, rainy weather, well over 1000 local people came out for some of the following reasons:
“I am here in the pouring rain because I care about our country.” Judy Molner, Saquoit
“There are so many reasons to be here. Forty grandchildren, I can’t stand by and do nothing.” Mary, Blue Mountain Lake
“It’s time to stop the madness in this Trump administration. Putting people in positions they are not qualified for. He and Musk are doing it to enrich themselves at our expense.” Chuck Ford, Barneveld
“I’m here to stand up against the unconstitutional and immoral things that are happening.” Beth Wenzel, Rome
“Trump is giving us exactly the devastating presidency he campaigned on; I’m here today as just one step toward 2026 and 2028.” Erika Sloan, Utica
“The state of things in this country right now is terrifying.” Kathy Mahoney, Utica
“I have a right to a future as much as anyone else.” Rachael, young person from Whitesboro.
In Central New York communities, people are organizing and making it clear to the people who are supposed to represent them that elected officials need to stand with them.
Photos and videos from the events below and at the links here:
