Hundreds gather in Hayward for ‘No Kings’ Rally

Hundreds of people gathered in Hayward on Saturday for the third No Kings rally, a protest taking place nationwide.

Despite cold temperatures, demonstrators met at the intersection of Highways 27 and 63 in downtown Hayward, also known as “Democracy Corner.”

Protesters carried signs criticizing the Trump administration, with many highlighting federal immigration policy changes, the SAVE Act, and conflicts involving Iran.

Local protester Mike Francis says he’s concerned about the next election.

“It seems like right now Trump is desperate, and it seems like he’s heading toward trying to cancel the election,” Francis says.

He adds that he attends almost every protest in the area and even travels to Rice Lake on weekends to take part.  

“Times are desperate enough that people should be out here every week. I’m retired, I could be out here every day, and I would be,” says Francis.

Katherine Nordstrom held a sign reading, “We support our democracy.” 

Nordstrom says that she’s concerned about recent developments, including the Iran war and the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

“I think it’s extremely important to show disagreement with what’s going on, and I’m concerned about democracy and that it’s failing,” says Nordstrom.

The rally was organized by Up North Engaged, along with the Democratic Party of Sawyer County and the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation.

The Hayward rally also featured a food shelf collection sponsored by the local Democratic party. Organizers say over $400 was donated and 125 pounds of food was collected for the Hayward Community Food Shelf.

A volunteer with the League of Women Voters also helped attendees check their voter registration status.

Organizers estimate nearly 450 people attended.

Similar rallies were also held in nearby counties, including Price, Ashland, Bayfield, Washburn, and Douglas.