Pro-Democracy protesters rally at Capaha Park’s Freedom Corner for “No Kings” protest

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Protesters gathered Saturday at Capaha Park’s Freedom Corner for a “No Kings” protest, telling me for the protection of democracy and the preservation of the U.S. Constitution.

Organized by the SEMO Protect Democracy group, the rally drew participants from across the political spectrum.

“We’re out here today because we want to give voice to the need to protect our democracy,” a SEMO Protect Democracy spokesperson said. “We want to make sure our government functions as it was designed, without executive overreach and with Congress and the judiciary playing their roles.”

Deborah Patterson, a protester, said the gathering talks about why she decided to attend.

“I’ve been watching and I’m concerned about what’s happening — it’s like a cruel and gleeful shredding of the Constitution,” Patterson said. “We are better people than that.”

Despite the holiday weekend, organizers said they were pleased by the turnout.

“It’s heartening to me in southeast Missouri to see a turnout like this,” Patterson added. “This is part of a bigger, broader effort and those efforts matter in times like this.”

Missouri State Representative Barry Hovis discusses that political division has become increasingly common.

“Whenever one side is in power, the other side gets upset,” Hovis said. “It’s unfortunate, but that’s the way it is right now. I just hope people continue to vote, stay engaged, and treat one another with respect.”

Protesters discusses why they thought this protest was important.

“The goal is to put Americans first,” the SEMO group said. “Regardless of your political party, we must protect our three branches of government and ensure democracy continues to function.”