Williamsport, Pa. — Local residents and organizers with Action Together NEPA gathered outside 330 Pine Street on Friday to protest federal and state budget decisions and call for greater accountability from Congressman Dan Meuser.
Action Together NEPA organizer Jess Britton, standing in the group outside where Meuser's Williamsport satellite office is located, said constituents have repeatedly requested an in-person town hall with Meuser — who has not scheduled one.
"Lots of folks have questions on really harmful legislation he has supported, and those questions are not being addressed in a way that is satisfactory to his constituents," Britton said.
A few in the group held signs referencing H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, calling on Congressman Meuser to "do the right thing." Others' signs expressed frustration toward wealthy people's needs being considered over working class constituents. Another called to "end the political violence."
Protesters said they want answers on such legislation, including the federal budget bill that Meuser voted in favor of — a.k.a. the Big Beautiful Bill — which "cut Medicaid" while providing significant tax breaks for the wealthy and increasing funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
ICE has recently carried out targeted enforcement operations to detain immigrant workers in Lycoming County, including roofers at work sites, some of the group's members pointed out.
In the midst of the event, a protester came out from the building housing Meuser’s satellite office to tell the group that no one was present.
James May, Meuser’s regional director, is stationed at the office, but a sign on the door listed his phone number and email, noting he was “on the road meeting with constituents.”
Protesters attempted to call the number, but May's voicemail inbox was full, they said.
Protesters also criticized state-level funding delays, saying that Pennsylvania’s budget is months late, which affects schools, teachers, and rural transit systems. Participants said teachers are forced to buy their own classroom supplies, arts programs are being cut, and public amenities, such as swimming pools, are being reduced or made costly, while sports facilities receive funding.
Rob Barkley, another Action Together NEPA organizer who has appeared at other rallies in Williamsport, said activism is draining but rewarding. “It feels like I’m giving strength back to people who never felt like they had it,” he said.
Representatives of other progressive groups, such as the women's rights group Supermajority, were also present in solidarity.
The organizers said "Fight Back Fridays" will continue as a regular event to maintain pressure on elected officials.
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