Washington: Americans strongly protested against US President Donald Trump and government advisor Elon Musk's policies. Under the banner ‘Hands Off’, large-scale demonstrations were held in around 1,400 locations across all 50 states. Since Trump took office again three months ago, he has made several major decisions—cracking down on illegal immigrants, cutting government jobs, and initiating trade wars with other nations. People hit the streets in protest, making it the biggest public demonstration in the US since the 2017 Women’s March and the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement.
Demands Raised by Protesters
People protested at state capitals, federal buildings, congressional offices, social security headquarters, and parks. Protesters demanded an end to billionaire dominance, corruption in government, and cuts to programs like Medicaid and Social Security. They also opposed attacks on immigrants, trans people, and other communities. They criticized Trump’s tariff wars and mocked his policies, saying, "Tax the rich, not the penguins," referring to a recent bizarre tax imposed on an uninhabited island in Australia known for penguins.
Calls for Impeachment and Elon Musk’s Deportation
Protesters in Seattle were angry about cuts to social security and government jobs. In Atlanta, signs read "Impeach Trump, Deport Musk." In Boston, people held placards saying “Hands Off Our Democracy” and “Hands Off Our Social Security,” voicing strong opposition. Anger was also directed at Elon Musk’s influence in the government. Many placards read “Deport Elon Musk” and “Tax the Rich, Not the Penguins.” Over 150 organizations, including labor unions, LGBTQ activists, lawyers, seniors, and election activists, coordinated the peaceful protests. The White House issued a statement defending Trump, saying he is committed to supporting social security for eligible citizens and blamed previous Democratic rule for misuse of benefits.