CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – People across the country are rallying against the Trump administration as a part of nationwide “hands off” protests.

People in Cedar Rapids lined the sidewalks of 8th avenue southeast, chanting and holding signs.

While upset about topics ranging from tariffs, cuts to the federal workforce, Israel’s war in Gaza, or a number of other issues, people rallied on Saturday focused on one message.

“Just hands off our democracy, hands off the history of our country,” said Jessica Peel-Austin.

Several protestors TV9 spoke to said in one form or another, they feel they’ve been negatively affected by what they say is government overreach.

“We are watching what is happening in our government and we are absolutely ashamed of the things that they are doing completely unchecked,” said Juli Hardin.

The protest in Cedar Rapids is one of several in Eastern Iowa, with more than 1200 “hands off” protests unfolding in all 50 states.

While many signs and protestors are focusing on national issues, some protestors are calling on state and local representatives to take a stand.

“They’re not here right now, they’re not speaking up. They’re not working for us. They’re 100% complicit in everything that’s happening right now,” said Samantha Donisi.

Though the protests are rooted in discontent with the government, some people said they were leaving Saturday happy.

They say the turnout and the reaction from cars passing by shows a solidarity.

“I am exhilarated by this and I think everyone here is today. I’m really excited to see that we can get together with members of our community about causes that we all care about deeply,” said Erienne Becker.

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