Protesters Swing Back: ‘Hands Off!’ Rallies Target Trump and Musk Nationwide

Thousands rallied across the United States on Saturday to express opposition to President Donald Trump’s administration and its policies. Organizers aimed for the demonstrations to be the largest since Trump returned to office in January.

Over 1,200 “Hands Off!” protests were coordinated by more than 150 groups, encompassing civil rights organizations, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, and veterans. The protests took place at various sites, including the National Mall in Washington, D.C., state capitols, and locations in every state.

High-profile figures joined the protests, including Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, who condemned the administration’s treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. “The attacks that we’re seeing, they’re not just political. They are personal,” she stated. “This is Donald Trump’s America and I don’t want it y’all.”

Demonstrators in New York City filled midtown Manhattan, while gatherings in Massachusetts saw similar sentiments. Protesters wielded signs that read, “Hands off our democracy” and “Diversity equity inclusion makes America strong. Hands off!”

In Columbus, Ohio, rain did not deter hundreds from voicing their concerns outside the Statehouse. Roger Broom, a 66-year-old retiree, expressed his disillusionment, stating, “He’s tearing this country apart.”

Protests occurred in Florida as well, notably in Palm Beach Gardens, where demonstrators rallied near Trump’s golf club. Archer Moran of Port St. Lucie remarked, “They need to keep their hands off of our Social Security.”

While the protests unfolded, the White House defended Trump’s policies, insisting he remains committed to protecting Social Security and Medicare benefits for eligible Americans. A spokesperson asserted that the Democratic approach could endanger these programs.

This wave of protests reflects ongoing opposition to Trump and his policies, although mobilization efforts have not yet reached the scale of previous movements like the Women’s March or the Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020. In Charlotte, North Carolina, protesters voiced their discontent over multiple issues, including social security and reproductive rights. “What’s going on today is abhorrent,” said Britt Castillo, emphasizing the need for better leadership.

The protests signal a significant public sentiment against the current administration, illustrating a united front among various advocacy groups.

Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth, Fatima Hussein, and video journalist Guillermo Gonzalez contributed to this report.