More than 2,000 Bakersfield citizens protested tax hikes and what they consider irresponsible government spending in a series of tea parties all over the country on April 15.

The local Tea Party took place outside the courthouse by the Liberty Bell on Truxtun Avenue.

Protesters expressed their discomfort for tax increases with signs and yelling out their opinions.

“I want the government to stop wasting my money,” said Charles Smith, who had never been in a protest before.

Julie Demos, a first grade teacher of the Bakersfield City School District, organized the protest.

Demos said that this is just the beginning of a movement that will challenge moral and fiscal irresponsibility from the American government leadership at every level.

“We are currently in the planning stages,” Demos said.?”This is just the beginning.”

?People from different political affiliations joined the public meeting.

“The ideals of the Tea Party grassroots movement transcend the political labels that divide our country,” she said.

Demos said that no lobbyists were involved in the organization of the Tea Party, it was organized only by citizens, her family and friends.

?”It was badly needed,” said John McCoy, father of Demos. “I am really proud of her.”

Master of ceremonies Katie Alderman expressed gratitude to the people who showed for the rally.

“I want to thank you American citizens for coming out here today and making a huge step for our country,” said Alderman to the crowd.

Jaz McKay from KNZR radio spoke for the audience and explained the cause of the gathering.

“We are here to remind [the government] that they work for us,” said McKay.

?McKay began his speech handing out play money to the people. “This is what your money is worth these days,” he said.

McKay fired up protesters who already were showing their anger for the government by booing at every chance when politicians were mentioned.

“Never have I seen populous rage as today,” said Dr. Harold W. Pease, who was the keynote speaker.

Pease, a political science professor at Taft College and creator of www.libertyunderfire.org, informed the crowd with numbers and illustrated the country’s debt.

In his speech, Pease reminded people of the importance of monitoring the government actions.

According to Pease, the constitutional principles were the base “that made the United States the greatest country on earth.”

“We demand that our elective officials remain loyal to the constitutional principles,” Pease said.

Pease was clear with the message that protesters were trying to send to all the levels of representation.

“.To Congress, the President, the Supreme Court, and to all the governors of all states and their legislative bodies, if you cannot follow this course please step aside,” Pease said.

?Pastor Chad Vegas ended the gathering with a prayer.