WASHINGTON – Thousands of Americans rallied across the country Saturday in the largest day of demonstrations yet against President Donald Trump’s administration. The protests, organized by the civil society group Indivisible alongside over 150 organizations, spanned more than 1,200 locations in all 50 states and included civil rights groups, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans, and election reform activists.
American expatriates and local allies also held rallies in cities worldwide, including Berlin, Paris, Frankfurt, and London.
Demonstrators gathered peacefully at prominent sites like the National Mall in Washington, DC, and state capitals nationwide. Organizers claimed that “millions” of people attended the rallies nationwide. Crowds in major cities from Midtown Manhattan to Anchorage, Alaska, condemned Trump’s policies and the government downsizing initiatives led by Elon Musk, who serves as head of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency. Musk, CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and social media platform X, claims his actions are saving taxpayers billions of dollars.
In Washington, DC, independent numbers of protesters had yet to be released, though organizers claimed over 100,000 people were in attendance. Many voiced concerns about the administration’s approach to immigration, the economy, and human rights.
Asked about the protests, the White House stated, “President Trump’s position is clear: he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving these benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
At the Washington, DC, rally, multiple speakers expressed hope that the day’s demonstrations would inspire others dissatisfied with Trump’s policies to join the movement. Jamie Raskin, a Democratic representative from Maryland and the party’s leading figure on the House Judiciary Committee, delivered a fiery speech.
“If they think they are going to overthrow the foundations of democracy, they don’t know who they are dealing with,” Raskin declared.
Indivisible’s executive director, Leah Greenberg, emphasized the importance of continued resistance.
“We want to send a signal to all people and institutions showing anticipatory obedience to Trump that there is, in fact, a mass public movement ready to rise up and stop this,” she said. “If our political leaders stand up, we will have their backs. The goal of this is building a message.”
Social media buzzed with posts documenting participation in the Hands Off protests, showcasing a wide range of signs and messages.
The Wild Hunt reported from the National Mall, noting the presence of Pagan imagery, including pentacles, Awens, and Mjolnir symbols worn by individuals. Surprisingly, many displaying these symbols declined to identify as Pagan. One protester wearing a rainbow pentacle explained, “I think it is an important image, but I’m not Pagan or a witch.”
As the movement grows, organizers hope to build momentum and inspire broader participation. With many feeling disillusioned by the current administration’s policies, the Hands Off demonstrations may mark a pivotal moment in shaping an organized, sustained resistance.
Stefano Ciotti contributed to this article.
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