Activists line busiest intersection in Muncie as part of national ‘Hands Off’ protest

“If I was out here with every sign, that represented how I felt, I wouldn’t be able to carry them all, I would need a semi to carry all of the signage,” said Thomas Kirby.

He was one of many concerned citizens in Muncie participating in the nationwide Saturday coordinated “Hands Off” protests, an event that saw more than hundreds of thousands of demonstrators across all 50 states and even European cities.

Protesters in Muncie lined the road shoulders along both sides of the city’s busiest intersection at McGalliard Road and Wheeling Avenue.

Attendees held signs protesting a wide variety concerns, including Elon Musk and the “Department of Government Efficiency” committee, President Donald Trump’s tariffs agenda, and waning presidential administration support for social security and veteran services.

Read More: Indiana U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz’s town hall in Muncie met with protests

Christy Tunnell expressed pride in seeing her community show up in such large numbers.

An activist holds a sign protesting Elon Musk. (Thomas Ouellette / IPR News)

“I feel fantastic, I love it. I was fired up when I heard about it, I am fired up to see everybody here, I absolutely love it, I am very proud,” said Tunnell.

A small group of pro-Trump activists also attended the protest. One of the Trump supporters, Colten, a local high school student below voting age, spoke positively about the level of engagement that he saw.

“Honestly, even though they are against what I stand for, it’s pretty cool to see this many people come out here and voice their opinion,” he said.

Thomas Ouellette is our reporter and producer. Contact him at [email protected]