While many people spent April 15 finishing their taxes before the midnight deadline, others gathered together to protest Congress’ new budget.

Across the nation, conservatives participated in National Tax Day Tea Parties, which put a spotlight on excessive government spending and what could be done to stop it.

Tahlequah was one of several cities in Oklahoma hosting a party, which was sponsored by the Cherokee County Young Republicans.

Dr. Fritz Laux, associate professor of economics and faculty adviser for CCYR at Northeastern State University, hopes the event will raise awareness about truth in politics.

“We’re promoting political involvement, and are specifically concerned about the current government spending plans,” said Laux. “I think, nationwide, these events are Republican-driven, and about half the organizers are Libertarians. There’s not much difference between them other than the war in Iraq.”

Organizers served up iced tea and pork sandwiches, and about 100 residents of all ages took part in the festivities. Many carried signs with anti-tax slogans like “Congressional pirates have taken our taxes as loot! Giving our children the boot!” and “Obama, be honest!”

One couple, Kendra and William Metcalfe, said they came to support the effort because they disagree with the corporate bailouts.

“Instead of paying that money directly to the companies, they should have given the money to us and let us decide where to spend it,” said William. “It should be up to me where my money is spent, not the government.”

Both agreed the blame couldn’t be placed squarely on the shoulders of President Barack Obama, as others in the group believe.

“I don’t blame Obama; I blame Congress,” said William. “We have lifetime politicians in Washington who’re corrupt and spend our taxes on pork and pet projects. It’s been building for years. It’s not a Democrat or Republican issue, it’s an American issue.”

“For me, the bailouts were the last straw,” Kendra added. “AIG is a perfect example of what William is talking about.”

When asked how they felt their attendance would make a difference, the couple agreed in the old adage of strength being in numbers.

“We’re two people, who’ve joined a crowd ... to discuss this issue,” said William. “All across America, there are crowds just like this doing the same thing. Hopefully, they’ll gather together and understand this is not a partisan issue, it’s an American issue.”

Laux hopes the event will spur conservatives into honing their message.