Protest held in Palm Springs as a part of nationwide President’s Day demonstrations

Political groups in the Coachella Valley hosted a local protest in solidarity with nationwide protests this President's Day.

Two local political groups, Courageous Resistance and Indivisible of the Desert, hosted the protest at Palm Springs City Hall at noon on Monday.

"We're gathering to stand against corruption and advocate for a government that serves all its people," says a spokesperson for Courageous Resistance. The group says the theme for today's rally is "The President May Be for Sale, but Our Democracy Is Not."

The rally began with speakers on the steps in front of City Hall. After about 45 minutes, the protesters lined E Tahquitz Canyon Way, just in front of City Hall, between El Cielo Road and Civic Drive, to the sound of car horns and cheers as motorists drove past.

Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte, who also attended the protest, told News Channel Three that this was the largest gathering at City Hall that he has seen in the last 16 years. According to organizers, 500 people were counted.

These protests are similar to ones held in early February in Palm Desert. The '50501 Movement' – otherwise known as '50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement' – is urging protesters to coordinate nonviolent protests at the White House, state capitols, and local city halls in a nationwide day of protest. 

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear why these protesters gathered today and what they think is next on their agenda.