Grassroots Coalition Sends Peaceful but Powerful Message to Trump and Hamadeh
PHOENIX, AZ, June 14, 2025 — In a powerful display of civic action, over 5,700 residents across Arizona’s 8th Congressional District gathered the morning of Saturday, June 14, at seven key intersections for a peaceful protest against authoritarian overreach. The No Kings mobilization, part of a national day of action spanning over 2,000 cities, was organized by the Step Up CD8 coalition to defend democracy and demand accountability from elected leaders.
Participants stood along sidewalks from Anthem to Surprise, waving signs like “No Kings,” “Freedom Over Fascism,” and “Power Belongs to the People.” Despite the rising heat, spirits remained high and the mood remained peaceful.
“Trump openly promised to be a dictator on day one—and he’s governed like he meant it,” said Brent Peak, a lead organizer with Step Up CD8. “Meanwhile, Representative Abe Hamadeh has remained silent, complicit, and unavailable to the very people he was elected to represent.”
Peaceful Protest, Serious Concerns
Protesters voiced concern about recent federal actions they believe reflect authoritarian tendencies, including the deployment of ICE tactical teams to sanctuary cities and the federalization of the National Guard in anticipation of peaceful dissent.
While the Trump administration has cited public safety, many constituents in CD-8 see these moves as intimidation tactics. Organizers emphasized that their protest was not against the military, but against the misuse of federal power.
“We’re honoring the Army’s founding by standing up to would-be kings,” said Peak. “That’s the American legacy—not $100 million parades and punishing legitimate protest.”
Hamadeh’s Silence Draws Fire
Much of the protest also centered on local representation. Organizers detailed months of unanswered calls, ignored meeting requests, and public dismissals from Representative Hamadeh.
“We held a town hall without him. We wrote. We called. We showed up at his office. His response? Threats, lies, and coordination with counter-protesters,” said Peak. “So today, we showed up in force throughout the district. And we’ll keep showing up.”
Unified, Local, and Peaceful
The Step Up CD8 coalition formed in May after mounting frustration with Hamadeh’s disengagement. Since then, it has grown into a broad alliance of local grassroots groups, veterans, educators, faith leaders, and families committed to peaceful civic action.
Saturday’s protests took place in Anthem, Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Sun City, and Surprise. Volunteers handed out water, and families lined sidewalks in a show of unity. There were no incidents.
Organizers offered thanks to the Surprise, Phoenix, and Peoria Police Departments, as well as the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department, for helping ensure the events remained safe for all participants.
About Step Up CD8
Step Up CD8 is a volunteer-led coalition committed to defending democracy and holding elected officials accountable in Arizona’s 8th Congressional District. Through peaceful protest, civic education, and sustained engagement, they advocate for a future where power rests with the people—not political strongmen.
Photos, video, and interviews available upon request.
Contact: contactnwvi@gmail.com | https://stepupcd8.com