Thousands of Americans gathered across all 50 states on Saturday, April 5, 2025, to protest recent government policies under President Donald Trump and government efficiency czar Elon Musk. The mass protests, dubbed the “Hands Off!” rallies, took place in more than 1,200 cities and towns, stretching from Midtown Manhattan to Anchorage, Alaska.
The demonstrations were organized by a coalition of over 150 civil rights groups, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, and grassroots organizations. The rallies, which remained peaceful, were aimed at defending Social Security, Medicare, immigrant rights, and federal workers from what organizers call “aggressive rollbacks.”
Why Protesters Are Taking to the Streets
The protests were fueled by the Trump administration’s recent moves to eliminate thousands of federal jobs, close Social Security offices, deport immigrants, and cut programs that serve marginalized communities. Critics say these actions are harming average Americans while favoring billionaires and corporations.
“People are speaking out because their basic rights and services are under attack,” said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, during a rally at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Protest Hotspots: From Florida to California
In Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, just miles from where Trump was golfing at his private club, hundreds lined PGA Drive, chanting and holding signs that read “Hands Off Our Social Security” and “Stop the Cuts.” Archer Moran, a protester from Port St. Lucie, said, “The list of things they need to keep their hands off is too long. People are angry—and for good reason.”
In Los Angeles, protesters marched from Pershing Square to City Hall, calling out policies they believe are hurting working families. In Seattle, signs reading “Fight the Oligarchy” could be seen near the Space Needle.
On the East Coast, Boston’s Mayor Michelle Wu joined demonstrators holding banners that read “Hands off our democracy.” Wu said, “I refuse to accept a future where diversity is under threat and immigrants like my children’s grandparents are treated like criminals.”
Elon Musk’s Role in Downsizing
Elon Musk, who currently serves as head of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, has been a focal point of criticism. Protesters accuse him of pushing harmful budget cuts and helping dismantle key public agencies. Musk has defended his role, stating that he is saving taxpayers billions by eliminating wasteful spending.
“He may be saving money, but it’s at the cost of people’s livelihoods and rights,” said Roger Broom, a 66-year-old retiree from Delaware County, Ohio, who joined hundreds at the Ohio Statehouse.
Voices from the Crowd
Many protestors said they felt compelled to speak out after seeing programs they depend on targeted by recent policies. Britt Castillo, 35, of Charlotte, North Carolina, said, “Regardless of party, what’s happening now is wrong. They’re not listening to us.”
In San Jose, California, longtime activist Deborah Doherty said she was alarmed by what she called public fatigue. “People are becoming numb, and that’s dangerous,” she warned. “We can’t afford to stop showing up.”
White House Responds
In a statement issued Saturday, the White House defended its stance. “President Trump’s position is clear: he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries,” it read. “Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
Despite the response, protesters say the administration’s actions contradict those words.
A Growing Movement or a Fading Flame?
While Saturday’s protests marked the largest coordinated anti-Trump demonstrations since his return to office, some fear public interest may be waning. Unlike the 2017 Women’s March or the Black Lives Matter rallies of 2020, turnout was smaller in some cities.
Still, organizers remain hopeful. “This isn’t about a one-time event,” said Castillo. “It’s about holding leaders accountable every day.”
With policies rapidly changing, advocacy groups plan to keep pressure on lawmakers. Future rallies and voter mobilization efforts are already in motion ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
