Protesters across the US rally against Trump and Musk in ‘Hands Off!’ demonstrations

Citizens across the United States expressed their discontent with the administration of President Donald Trump as they participated in protests and demonstrations on a large scale. The Hands Off! rallies, organized by over 150 groups and held in more than 1,200 locations in every state, aimed to voice opposition to the policies and actions of the government under President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.

Protesters in cities from New York to Alaska criticized Trump and Musk for their stances on government downsizing, the economy, immigration, and human rights. Demonstrators in major cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle held signs and chanted slogans denouncing the administration’s decisions, including the firing of federal workers, deportation of immigrants, and rolling back protections for vulnerable communities.

As the head of the newly established Department of Government Efficiency, Musk has been a key figure in these downsizing efforts, claiming to save taxpayers substantial amounts of money. The White House issued a statement emphasizing President Trump’s commitment to protecting programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, critics at the rallies accused the administration of undermining LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare funding, and diversity.

Protesters in different parts of the country highlighted a range of concerns, including the erosion of democracy, attacks on Social Security, threats to immigrants, and violations of personal freedoms. Individuals like Roger Broom, a retiree from Ohio, expressed disillusionment with the current administration’s policies and their impact on American society. In Florida, demonstrators near Trump’s golf course called for the protection of various programs and rights that they feel are under threat.

Despite the ongoing protests against Trump and Musk across the nation, the opposition movement had yet to achieve a level of mobilization similar to events like the Women’s March in 2017 or the Black Lives Matter protests following the killing of George Floyd. Demonstrators in cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, and San Jose, California, voiced their concerns about the direction of the country and the need for a different approach to addressing existing challenges.

As citizens continue to express their discontent with the current administration, the protest movement signals a growing dissatisfaction with government policies and a desire for change. With diverse groups coming together to voice their opposition to the actions of Trump and Musk, the rallies represent a collective effort to uphold fundamental rights, safeguard vital programs, and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.