Youngkin dodges anti-DOGE protesters outside Virginia church

Protesters gathered at Patrick Henry Park in Richmond, Virginia, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Patrick Henry’s iconic speech, where he famously proclaimed, “Give me liberty or give me death!” The rally, organized by Indivisible Richmond, aimed to resist the perceived authoritarian rule of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s leadership in the Department of Government Efficiency.

As Governor Glenn Youngkin, a Trump ally, delivered his remarks at the annual reenactment of Henry’s speech at St. John’s Church, he was met with loud boos, chants of “shame,” and protest cries from the crowd. Protesters held up signs calling for the deportation of Musk and labeling Youngkin as a “Trumpkin.” Despite the raucous atmosphere, Youngkin expressed gratitude to those who care deeply about the future of Virginia and the country.

Youngkin invoked Henry’s fight for freedom and liberty in his speech, while Democratic state Sen. Ghazala Hashmi used a megaphone to highlight President Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War. The protest featured a comparison between resisting King George in the American Revolution and resisting Trump in modern times, with some protesters calling for Trump’s removal from office.

Former President Trump, in a proclamation honoring the anniversary of Henry’s speech, referenced the famous line, “Give me liberty or give me death!” The phrase has been a powerful rallying cry throughout history, used by protesters in various movements, including the Tiananmen Square protests, the Civil Rights movement, and opposition to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Protests against Trump’s executive authority and Musk’s leadership have continued since Trump’s return to office, with progressive groups hosting demonstrations like “Not My Presidents Day” and “No Kings Day.” Democrats have increasingly accused the Trump administration of authoritarianism and oligarchy, prompting calls to defend America’s constitutional republic.

Governor J.B. Pritzker of Illinois recently urged Democrats to fight against Trump’s perceived incompetence and treachery, likening the current political climate to Nazi Germany. Senator Bernie Sanders has also held rallies across the country to address the greed of the billionaire class and advocate for a government that works for all.

Indivisible Richmond, Governor Youngkin, and the White House did not respond to requests for comment. The commemoration of Patrick Henry’s historic speech serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy in America.