Mass Protests Erupt Across U.S. Against Trump Administration's Policies:

Tens of thousands of Americans took to the streets on Saturday in the largest wave of protests since Donald Trump returned to the White House. Demonstrators rallied in all 50 states and over 1,200 cities, expressing strong opposition to policies they say undermine democracy and harm vulnerable communities.

Under the banner “Hands Off!”, a coalition of more than 150 organizations—including MoveOn, Women's March, the Human Rights Campaign, and veterans' groups—organized the mass mobilization. Protesters gathered at state capitols, major public squares, and Washington’s National Mall.

Public Outrage Over Cuts to Rights and Services

Participants condemned efforts by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal government and eliminate protections for minority communities, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ population. Concerns also focused on proposed funding cuts to health and social programs.

In Washington, Representative Jamie Raskin addressed thousands on the National Mall, sharply criticizing Trump’s policies.
“No moral person wants an economy-crashing dictator,” Raskin said to loud cheers.

Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson focused on LGBTQ+ issues, denouncing the rollback of vital protections:
“They’re slashing HIV prevention funding, criminalizing our doctors, and targeting our families. This is not the America we want,” she declared.

Voices Across the Nation and Abroad

From New York to Los Angeles and Houston to Boston, people marched with signs reading “Hands off our democracy” and “Diversity makes America strong.” In Columbus, Ohio, despite rain, hundreds turned out. Roger Broom, a retired Republican voter, said:
“He’s tearing this country apart.”

Even international protests erupted across European cities in solidarity.

Elon Musk Faces Backlash as Government Reformer

Protesters also turned their attention to Elon Musk, now heading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and serving as a senior adviser to Trump. Critics accused Musk of overseeing the dismantling of federal services and firing government workers. His role in closing Social Security offices and cutting agencies drew sharp criticism at protest sites nationwide.

Peaceful Demonstrations Marked by Defiance

Though the demonstrations were peaceful, the tone was firm. Protesters donned costumes from The Handmaid’s Tale and carried signs like “No king for USA” in cities like Denver, emphasizing fears over authoritarianism and threats to reproductive rights.

White House Responds, Trump Stays Course

The White House dismissed the protests, reiterating Trump’s stance on preserving entitlement programs:
“President Trump will protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible citizens,” the statement read.

On the same day, Trump appeared unfazed, playing golf at his Florida resort. Nearby in Palm Beach Gardens, protesters lined PGA Drive, urging motorists to honk in solidarity.