Despite a malfunction that deflated their oversized “fat cat” prop, advocates in Williamsport, Pa., pressed on with a protest intended to call out billionaires and politicians. The symbolic setback didn’t dampen their rallying spirit outside a congressman’s office.
Subscribe
Breaking News
Political Movements
Activists take billionaires, lawmakers to task
Photo by Mountain Democrat
Key Takeaways:
- Local activists planned a rally in Williamsport, Pa., using a giant inflatable prop.
- The equipment malfunctioned, preventing the “fat cat” from being inflated.
- Despite the glitch, the protest against lawmakers and billionaire influence continued.
- The demonstration aimed to draw attention to perceived power imbalances.
- Mountain Democrat originally published this story on November 14, 2025.
Protest in Williamsport
A group of local activists converged in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, on November 14, 2025, determined to deliver a pointed message about the influence of billionaires and lawmakers. Gathering outside a congressman’s office, the protesters brought resolve and a notable prop to the scene, aiming to make a powerful statement.
The Symbolic ‘Fat Cat’
Central to the protest was an inflatable “fat cat,” a large balloon meant to symbolize wealthy interests that activists believe disproportionately affect policy decisions. The enormous cat was intended as a visual critique of the outsized sway these billionaires hold in American politics.
Equipment Malfunction
The protest took an unexpected turn when the activists attempted to inflate the oversized balloon. An equipment mishap caused the “fat cat” prop to stay deflated, raising questions about whether the rally would continue at all. Despite the initial disappointment, organizers quickly regrouped.
Perseverance of Activists
In spite of the malfunction, the crowd did not waver. Demonstrators carried on with their messages and signs, ensuring that the short-lived technical glitch did not stifle their calls for greater political accountability. The protest proceeded with impassioned participants determined to highlight the issues at hand, whether or not their symbolic cat came to life.
Continuing the Cause
Although the “fat cat” remained limp, the activists’ resolve stayed strong. By turning attention away from the deflated prop and toward the core message, the rally succeeded in drawing public notice. Organizers underscored that no technical breakdown could derail their commitment to voicing concerns over billionaire influence in policymaking.
