Protesters rally for ‘Workers over Billionaires’ in Coeur d’Alene

COEUR d’ALENE — Under clear skies and blistering heat, about 200 people gathered along U.S. 95 on Monday to protest President Donald Trump and other billionaires who protesters believe are taking power away from the working class.

The Labor Day “Workers over Billionaires” protest was one of more than 1,000 rallies, marches, picnics and other demonstrations that occurred nationwide. The events aimed to show opposition to the Trump administration’s policies and show support for Medicaid, Social Security, public schools, health care and marginalized people across the United States. 

“On Labor Day, we will continue to stand strong, fighting for public schools over private profits, healthcare over hedge funds, shared prosperity over corporate politics,” organizer Julie Celeberti said in a news release. “Working people built this nation and we know how to take care of each other. We won’t back down. We will never stop fighting for our families and the rights and freedoms that ensure access to opportunity and a better life for all Americans.” 

While some motorists emitted black clouds of exhaust upon passing the protest, others honked, waved or cheered to show support. Demonstrators said the response from the public was largely positive. 

“It shows there’s opposition to the administration, even though 77% of Kootenai County voted for Donald Trump,” said Coeur d’Alene resident David Cohen. 

Cohen said he joined the protest because he strongly disagrees with the policies and agenda of the Trump administration. So do many others in North Idaho, he said, if the hundreds of protesters who have participated in other local demonstrations this year are anything to go by. 

“I think a lot of the people here are upset about the undermining of public institutions, not only nationally, but in the state of Idaho,” he said. 

Hayden resident Brad Onken said he’s a registered Republican who doesn’t support the Trump administration. 

“The one thing that insulted me the most is Jan. 6,” he said.  

North Idaho being a conservative stronghold makes it all the more important for people with different views to make their voices heard, Onken said. 

“I wanted to stand with my friends and people I don’t even know to show support for what’s right,” he said. 

Coeur d’Alene resident Lyndall cook said she protests in part to show others they’re not alone in their concerns or frustrations. 

“I think it’s our duty,” she said. “It gives people hope. They can see there are other people who feel the way they do.”

    Hayden resident Brad Onken protests the policies of the Trump administration during a Labor Day demonstration.
  

    Along U.S. 95 near Appleway, community members protested the influence of the ultra wealthy on politics.
  

    A protester displays a sign during the Labor Day “Workers over Billionaires” demonstration.