Protesters Rally in Mad River Valley Against Trump-Vance Administration Amid VP’s Ski Trip
Demonstrations Surge Amid Vice President JD Vance’s Visit
During Vice President JD Vance’s ski trip to Sugarbush Resort in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, thousands gathered to protest against the Trump-Vance administration. Protesters expressed concerns over democracy, climate policies, and LGBTQ+ rights, turning the region into a hub of political activism.
Massive Turnout in Waitsfield
A large demonstration took place along Main Street in Waitsfield, where Vermonters and visitors held signs and flags highlighting various issues. Protest organizers estimated that between 1,000 to 3,000 people participated. Many protesters cited fears over cuts to Social Security, Medicaid, and environmental protections.
Voices from the Protest
Ginny Sassaman, an organizer from Indivisible Calais, voiced concerns about democracy’s future, saying, “Some of us are scared about losing Social Security, Medicaid, or even facing climate crises. Protesting is our way of resisting.”
Tisa Rennau from Indivisible Mad River Valley criticized Vance’s presence in Vermont after recent federal funding cuts and layoffs. She also noted how Trump and Vance’s tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fueled further outrage.
Pro-Palestinian Demonstrations in Warren
In nearby Warren, another protest took place outside the Pitcher Inn, where Vance had initially planned to stay. This rally, organized by the Vermont Coalition for Palestinian Liberation, called for the U.S. to stop funding Israel. Protesters carried Palestinian flags and banners demanding resources be redirected toward domestic healthcare and infrastructure.
Michelle Eddleman McCormick, an activist, said, “We demand that U.S. tax dollars fund schools and healthcare instead of devastation in Palestine.”
Counter-Protests in Support of Trump and Vance
Across the street from the Pitcher Inn, pro-Trump and Vance supporters gathered with American and MAGA flags. Gregory Thayer, a former Republican lieutenant governor candidate, led the counter-rally, stating, “We support their mission to improve the country.”
Heated Exchanges at Sugarbush Resort
At Sugarbush Resort, tensions flared as a pro-Trump motorcade clashed with a smaller group of protesters. Heated exchanges included shouting and vulgar language. Some protesters also positioned themselves near a ski lift where Vance was rumored to be skiing.
Montpelier resident Dan Vidali joined the demonstration at the resort, arguing that the administration is endangering Vermonters. “Trump and Vance are hurting people across the U.S. and our allies like Ukraine,” he said.
Resort Operations Continue Uninterrupted
Despite the protests, Sugarbush Resort remained open, with its lifts and lodges operating as usual. The resort has not issued an official response to the demonstrations.
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