Salem, Oregon – On a crisp February afternoon, residents from throughout the Willamette Valley gathered at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem, united by a shared sense of frustration with former President Donald Trump. The demonstration, which drew hundreds of attendees, marked a collective expression of discontent, fueled by a combination of political, social, and economic concerns that have been simmering since Trump’s tenure in office.
The rally, organized by a coalition of progressive groups, was a response to ongoing developments related to Trump’s influence on national politics, as well as the enduring controversy surrounding his actions and policies. Protesters, many of whom had never before participated in such an event, carried signs emblazoned with slogans such as “Trump, You’re Fired,” “Make America Decent Again,” and “The Willamette Valley Says No to Trump.”
“We can’t sit idly by while divisiveness and hatred continue to permeate our political landscape,” said Maria Johnson, a Salem resident and one of the event’s key organizers. “This rally is a statement that Oregonians, particularly those in the Willamette Valley, will not stand by and let Trump continue to push this country backward.”
Among the protesters were a wide range of individuals, from young students to senior citizens, all of whom expressed deep frustration with the former president’s rhetoric, policies, and his role in the January 6th Capitol insurrection. As chants of “Trump must go” reverberated through the Capitol grounds, participants voiced their concerns about issues that have plagued the nation, from climate change to racial justice and the ongoing challenges brought by the pandemic.
“Trump’s disregard for science and the environment was evident throughout his presidency,” said Emily Roberts, a biology professor from Corvallis. “We’re already seeing the devastating effects of climate change right here in Oregon, and his administration’s rollbacks on environmental protections made everything worse. It’s time for a change.”
The rally also drew attention to Trump’s polarizing impact on Oregon’s political climate. Although Oregon has long been a liberal stronghold, many protesters feel that Trump’s rhetoric emboldened extreme right-wing factions within the state, leading to an increase in divisiveness and hate speech. “We need to take a stand,” said Theo Martinez, a high school teacher from Eugene. “Our students are watching, and we need to show them that we value kindness, empathy, and truth over lies and hatred.”
Local leaders, including state representatives and activists, took to the stage to express their views, amplifying calls for unity and a rejection of Trump’s brand of politics. The rally featured speeches on the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and respecting human rights, with several speakers emphasizing the need for accountability as Trump’s legal battles continue to unfold.
Though the event was largely peaceful, it highlighted the continued division within the state and the country at large. As Oregon prepares for the 2024 elections, the rally underscored the enduring power of grassroots movements in shaping the political landscape. In the Willamette Valley, the message was clear: many Oregonians remain resolutely opposed to Trump’s influence and are committed to fighting for a future they believe will prioritize justice, fairness, and integrity.
As the crowd dispersed, chants of “No more Trump!” echoed through downtown Salem, a clear reminder that, despite the years since his presidency, Trump’s legacy remains a lightning rod for political activism in Oregon and beyond.
