GALLERY: Protesters rally outside John J. Pershing VA Medical Center against DOGE job, funding cuts

Demonstrators gathered near John J. Pershing VA Medical Center on Saturday to oppose job and funding cuts by Elon Musk and DOGE.

Motorists honk in support of demonstrators on North Westwood Boulevard on Saturday, March 8. DAR photos/Samantha Tucker

Karon Henderson of the American Federation of Government, left, reads a passage of Ephesians at the beginning of the rally.

AFGE 2338 President Kevin Ellis addresses the crowd.

Pride of the Heartland President Noah Burns, center, speaks in support of veterans and active duty soldiers impacted by DOGE cuts and the Trump administration's ban on transgender service members.

Jean Cross of the Butler County Democrats urges unity during her speech to protestors Saturday.

Longtime teacher Tammy Harty speaks, emphasizing the importance of funding for education and particularly special education.

Sara Cope speaks Saturday from her background in natural resources while explaining the impact of firings and funding cuts on American farms and parks.

Taylor Fuller and her young daughter Delilah (in the stroller) travelled from Doniphan to join Saturday's rally.

Taylor Fuller steps back from the microphone after explaining how Medicaid covered her daughter's surgery.

John J. Pershing VA Medical Center is visible through signs supporting VA workers and veteran benefits.

Astrid Xavier speaks in support of veterans and working class Americans during Saturday's rally.

Veteran Tom Elliott speaks.

Veterans raise their hands in the picket line.

A variety of causes were represented on protestor signs, including support for Ukraine.

Regional political organizations and concerned citizens rallied near the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center on Saturday afternoon.

Around 70 people from diverse backgrounds — including senior citizens, veterans, students, union members and parents — assembled to support VA workers and speak out against actions by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Of greatest concern were proposed mass firings of VA employees, and cuts to Medicare and Medicaid.

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Speakers were Kevin Ellis, union president of AFGE 2338; Jean Cross of the Butler County Democrats; educator Tammy Harty, Noah Burns, president of Pride of the Heartland; and Sara Cope, natural resources worker and Butler County Democrats member.

This article was updated at 6:31 p.m. March 8 with Sara Cope's correct group affiliation.

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