Protests erupted in Clive, Iowa, on January 27, 2026, as demonstrators gathered outside the Horizon Events Center to voice their opposition to President Donald Trump’s visit and immigration enforcement actions. Protesters lined Northwest 100th Street, brandishing signs and chanting slogans to express their dissent prior to the President’s scheduled speech on the economy.
Rudy Rodriguez of Des Moines took a prominent role in the protest, rallying fellow demonstrators with spirited chants. Approximately 200 individuals participated in the event, holding various signs that reflected a broad range of concerns, particularly regarding immigration policies and actions taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Among the messages displayed were calls to “Abolish ICE,” showcasing the strong sentiment against current immigration enforcement.
The atmosphere was charged as police worked to manage the situation, ensuring that protesters remained safe while also directing them across the street from the event venue. Even as tensions ran high, many attendees showed spirited engagement — some supporters of President Trump, like John and Trace Knutson, were seen buying Trump hats ahead of his address.
As the protest unfolded, images of individuals holding upside-down American flags and other protest symbols became emblematic of the discontent many feel regarding the current political landscape. Activists like Bethany Ingledue and Johnny Kohls stood out among the crowd, drawing attention with their powerful messages.
Despite the clash of opinions and the division present in Clive, events like these underscore the vital nature of civic engagement and the importance of voicing differing viewpoints in a democratic society. While the protests reflected significant concern over immigration policies and the actions of ICE, the exercise of public dissent also served as a reminder of the active democratic process at work in America.