While President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence were on the way to Fort Drum to sign the National Defense Authorization Bill, protesters throughout the 21st District joined forces against Trump and Rep. Elise Stefanik.

Their message was clear: The current administration is not welcome in the North Country.

"As far as being happy the man is here: no. Everything that he stands for is just revolting,” said protester Michele O’Donnell.

Protesters said the Trump administration’s policies would negatively impact health care, education and women's rights.

While the bill would implement a 2.6 percent raise for all Army personnel, some protesters on Watertown's Public Square said it doesn't benefit everyday taxpayers.

"There is really a lack of alignment in that military budget where we are spending too much money on weapon systems we don't need," said Rev. Peter Cook, New York State Council of Churches' executive director.

Trump also traveled to Utica for a fundraiser with Rep. Claudia Tenney, a Republican facing a competitive re-election challenge from Democratic Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi.

The president was met with both opposition and support upon his arrival.

 

 
Protesters are also expected in Saratoga Springs Wednesday, where Stefanik and former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer are expected to attend a GOP fundraiser.