Anti-Trump Demonstrators Deliver Powerful Message to Congress from Maricopa

On March 8, 2025, the corner of John Wayne Parkway and Smith-Enke Road in Maricopa witnessed a notable protest, diverging from its typical MAGA-themed gatherings. This time, the presence of supporters for Ukraine added a different dimension to the area’s frequent demonstrations.

Homestead resident James Todd, a Vietnam War veteran, joined six others at 11 a.m. to voice their concerns over President Trump’s policies. Equipped with a sign urging support for Ukraine, Todd, using a portable oxygen machine, expressed his belief that the Ukrainian forces needed assistance amidst ongoing conflicts. “I’m not warlike…They’re the ones dying, they just need help,” he remarked, highlighting the urgency of the humanitarian crisis.

David Schneider, another protestor and a Province resident, articulated his perspective on the political climate in the U.S. He recalled his experience working with former Senator Donald Riegle in Michigan and lamented the current state of political discourse. His walker by his side, Schneider insisted that the deterioration of democratic values was more significant than his mobility challenges. “When you see real Republicans and Democrats negotiate, and then observe today’s polarization, it’s not right,” he stated.

Christina Spear, Schneider’s sister-in-law, stressed the importance of independent research in forming opinions. “Do your own research. Just because you saw it on Facebook doesn’t mean it’s true,” she urged fellow citizens. Her sentiments were echoed by Joyce Sigel, who hoped to inspire Maricopans to investigate statements made by political leaders critically. “When Trump tells you something, look it up,” Sigel advised.

Jason Kuehnl, another Homestead resident, carried a sign that read, “THEY DON’T CARE ABOUT YOU OR YOUR EGGS.” He emphasized that the protest was about exercising First Amendment rights. “The American people got exactly what they wanted,” Kuehnl remarked, reinforcing the need for free expression.

Terry Yoshii from The Lakes at Rancho El Dorado, who helped organize the protest, reported a mixture of responses, with most being positive. He held a sign championing diversity and inclusion as core American values. “We’ve had about a dozen positive honks and a couple of middle fingers,” Yoshii noted, underscoring the mixed reactions from passing drivers. He aims to establish weekly peaceful protests at various locations to foster engagement and discussion. “I’m going to be out here for maybe three hours, once a week, just to grab some attention,” Yoshii stated, highlighting his commitment to the cause.