GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) - Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Appleton and Green Bay on Saturday as part of the nationwide “Hands Off!” protest movement, voicing opposition to recent policies from the Trump administration and Department of Government Efficiency Director Elon Musk. The coord inated effort saw more than 1,000 rallies across all 50 states, but in Northeast Wisconsin, residents turned out in force with signs, speeches, and a strong message of civic resistance. Police: Recovered body from Wisconsin River identified as 75-year-old Chicagoan, search for second boater continues In Appleton, protesters lined College Avenue, chanting and holding handmade signs. Menasha resident Deb Zehner said she joined the crowd out of concern for the future of programs like Social Security. “I’m probably about seven years away from retiring,” Zehner said. “I’ve been putting into Social Security since I was 15 years old, and I wasn’t doing that so some billionaire can come along and take it as a tax cut.” She called the event empowering, noting the strong community turnout. “Besides voting, I thought this was the best possible way to let my voice be heard.” While largely peaceful, the Appleton protest briefly saw tension when a fight broke out, but attendees quickly responded with chants of “peaceful, peaceful,” and police defused the situation. “This is what’s right,” said Kristy Hansen of Appleton. “You don’t need to know a lot about politics to know what is happening in our country is wrong.” In Green Bay, the protest drew hundreds to Leicht Memorial Park. Many participants connected the local rally to broader momentum seen across the state, including the recent election of progressive Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Susan Crawford. “That election really energized not only myself but all of us,” said Green Bay resident Pete Angileilo. “There are too many issues to put on one sign, but I’m most concerned about our environment.” Karen Nelsen, from Denmark, Wisconsin, echoed a call for greater accountability from elected leaders. Friends of man killed in motorcycle crash in Fond du Lac gather for car-bike meet in memoriam, raise money for family “We voted them in. We’re paying them. They need to speak up for us — and you can see the people, they want to be heard.” Both events wrapped up without further incident, leaving organizers hopeful that local engagement will continue through the next election cycle. ...read more read less