On Saturday, April 5, from 1-2 p.m. a group called Indivisible will hold a “Hands Off” rally along Sims Way in Port Townsend, urging residents to bring signs and noisemakers. 

The protest targets Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claiming they threaten everything from Medicare to clean air. 

As a PCO for the Jefferson County Republican Party, I respect free speech, but I believe our community deserves the full story — especially about who’s funding this event and what DOGE could mean for us.

Indivisible’s flyer calls this a “billionaire power grab” by Musk and President Trump. Yet, Indivisible’s own funding raises questions. According to Open Society Foundations’ grant records, Indivisible received $7.6 million from George Soros’ philanthropy between 2017 and 2023. The Washington Examiner reported in 2017 on Soros’ extensive funding of progressive activism, noting his Open Society network often backs groups like Indivisible to influence political outcomes. This isn’t a local grassroots effort — it’s part of a well-funded national campaign targeting conservative-led initiatives like DOGE.

There’s more to consider. A 2019 Politico investigation into Indivisible’s operations revealed the group provides stipends to local organizers, incentivizing activism with financial support. While legal for a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, this practice challenges the “grassroots” label. And what about taxpayer dollars? 

In 2016, Republican lawmakers, including Senator Mike Lee, wrote to USAID demanding an audit of funds allegedly funneled to Soros-linked groups abroad, as reported by The Daily Signal in 2017. They estimated millions in U.S. tax dollars may have supported such efforts, raising questions about whether similar funding indirectly props up domestic protests like the one on April 5.

Now, let’s look at DOGE. Launched in January 2025, DOGE aims to cut federal waste and modernize technology. While specific impacts are still emerging, its leaders claim to have saved $1 billion by eliminating unnecessary contracts, like a $56,000 Veterans Affairs plant-watering deal. For Port Townsend, this could mean more efficient use of tax dollars, potentially freeing up funds for local priorities like the Port Hadlock sewer project, which could create jobs and boost South County’s economy. 

The Jefferson County Republican Central Committee (JCRCC) isn’t just observing national debates. We’re taking action locally. One of our key initiatives this year is launching a Young Republicans group for the area. With young people set to inherit a $34 trillion national debt — a number swelling due to unchecked federal spending — the JCRCC sees this as a way to give them a voice in shaping a future grounded in fiscal responsibility and opportunity.

JCRCC engages at the grassroots level to rally voters and support conservatives who value peace, prosperity, fiscal discipline, and the American ideals of liberty and justice for all. The Young Republicans group aims to bring Jefferson County’s next generation together to connect, learn, and tackle issues like cutting debt and boosting economic growth. Meanwhile, the broader JCRCC focuses on holding local and state governments accountable, challenging overreach from Olympia, and collaborating with the community to craft solutions that benefit everyone.  We welcome all residents who value freedom and limited government to join in these efforts.

DOGE’s tech upgrades might streamline federal services, potentially resulting in faster Social Security or veterans’ benefits for our residents. By addressing $236 billion in annual improper payments, as reported by the Government Accountability Office, DOGE could ensure small contractors or low-income families here don’t face delays or clawbacks.

Port Townsend values transparency, not outside agendas. The April 5 rally may claim to speak for us, but its funding suggests otherwise. JCRCC condemns the recent wave of property destruction in Washington state aimed at Telsa owners and dealerships. We welcome open debate and encourage you to visit jeffgop.org to join the conversation.

And when you see the signs on Sims Way, ask: Who’s really behind this, and what does DOGE mean for our community?

Lisa Farr is the elected PCO for North Jacob Miller, Precinct 1201 and an active member of the Jefferson County WA Republican Party.