Owner-Operator Protest Continues in Washington
On May 5, the owner-operator protest entered its fifth day in Washington, D.C., with rain expected. Still, the protesters plan to stay on Constitution Avenue until they secure a meeting at the White House.
Protest participant Janet Sanchez expressed determination: “I’m full of energy and ready to keep going. I came here to get a job done, and I’m staying until it’s finished,” she told The Trucker. Fellow protester Jeremy Johnson echoed her sentiments, stating, “We’re standing strong.”
Sanchez and Johnson are part of The Disrespected Trucker group on Facebook, which has grown significantly since its inception in July 2019 and now has over 7,000 members. Many new members have joined in the last two weeks amid the protest’s escalation.
The size of the protest continues to increase. “Another six or seven trucks joined us today, with more on the way,” Sanchez noted. Unlike many large protests, this one has garnered local support. Both Sanchez and Johnson remarked on the encouraging responses from law enforcement and community members.
“The police and Secret Service have been nothing short of supportive—bringing us food from concerned citizens,” Johnson said. Sanchez added, “Local motorists are even getting involved, making signs and honking their support as they pass by.”
While the group is gaining attention, they emphasize the need for actionable results. They aspire for a meeting with President Trump or members of his administration to discuss their grievances. Key participants are being considered for this potential meeting, with Johnson elaborating on the importance of selecting knowledgeable representatives.
The protestors have distinct priorities: Johnson is focused on Hours of Service (HOS) reform, advocating for the suspension of current regulations, while Sanchez aims for better compensation for truckers, proposing a reduction in broker fees. Moreover, both agree on the necessity for transparency in broker dealings and better protections for drivers.
As the protest persists, leaders like Sanchez and Johnson are committed to gathering opinions from participants to solidify their demands and maintain peaceful relations. “We’re all in this together,” Sanchez concluded, stressing unity and asking for public backing, stating, “Truckers move America; America needs to stand up for its truckers.”
