Public dissent against President Trump’s policies has surged during his second term, with mass protests occurring nationwide. Thousands rallied against his tariffs, immigration measures, and layoffs, with a coalition organizing over 1,300 events. Critics, including Senator Cory Booker and former President Obama, have vocalized opposition. Demonstrators also targeted Elon Musk for his influence. Economic concerns heightened due to Trump’s global tariffs, prompting protests that extended internationally to cities like Berlin and London.
In contrast to eight years ago, public opposition is gradually emerging during Trump’s second term. Recently, thousands have mobilized against his tariffs, stringent measures on migrants, and widespread layoffs.
Across the United States, citizens have taken to the streets en masse, voicing their dissent against President Donald Trump’s policies. In Washington, D.C., tens of thousands of protesters gathered at the iconic Washington Monument, as reported by various media outlets. Major protests also unfolded in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, and Chicago.
Nationwide Demonstrations Sparked by Activist Groups
A coalition of organizations organized a nationwide day of activism featuring over 1,300 events across all states under the rallying cry “Hands off.” The organizers anticipated a turnout of hundreds of thousands, with reports indicating that around 600,000 individuals had registered to participate in the demonstrations.
Ultimately, they claimed that millions were involved, although exact figures remain unverified. Authorities in Washington did not provide an estimate when asked. Nonetheless, social media platforms were flooded with images and videos capturing the extensive crowds gathering in various locations nationwide.
In New York, the protest stretch along Fifth Avenue extended nearly 20 city blocks, while thousands also marched in Chicago. Police reports indicated over 20,000 attendees in Atlanta, marking these events as some of the largest demonstrations during Trump’s current term. Notably, many larger protests occurred in cities and states that historically lean Democratic.
A Shift in Public Sentiment
In the initial weeks following his inauguration, Trump enacted policies at an astonishing pace, signing executive orders and creating controversy at every turn. This rapid-fire approach left many citizens, including members of the Democratic Party, in a prolonged state of shock, resulting in a lull in protests.
Now, however, public resistance is gradually building among Trump’s opponents, including Democrats. Recently, Senator Cory Booker garnered attention for a marathon 25-hour speech opposing Trump in Congress. Former Democratic President Barack Obama and Trump’s rival Kamala Harris have also emerged with critical statements after a period of silence.
Rallying Cry: ‘Hands Off Democracy’
At the nationwide rallies, demonstrators protested against the dismantling of essential US agencies, including the Department of Education, cuts in foreign aid, and the administration’s immigration policies—essentially opposing everything tied to Trump’s agenda.
In Washington, protesters displayed signs calling for the defense of the Constitution, impeachment proceedings against Trump, and the preservation of social programs. Messages like “Hands off democracy” and “Stop the coup” resonated throughout the crowd.
Criticism Extended to Elon Musk
Protests were not solely directed at Trump; many demonstrators also voiced their discontent with billionaire Elon Musk, who is perceived to have too much influence over governmental affairs.
In New York, thousands braved the rain to protest against both Trump and Musk, the CEO of Tesla. In Bryant Park, demonstrators waved signs with slogans such as “Pull the plug on Elon” and “I can only write this here because there was a Department of Education.”
Trump’s Controversial Agenda
Since assuming office, Trump, with Musk’s backing, has aggressively restructured government operations, resulting in mass firings of federal employees and the complete dismantling of several agencies. His administration has sparked outrage with numerous controversial decisions both domestically and on the international stage.
Taking a hard stance against migrants and minorities, Trump threatened on his first day in office to “take back” the Panama Canal, even suggesting military force if necessary. He has also made claims over Greenland and the Gaza Strip while urging Canada to join the USA. Many Democrats and experts view his approach as a significant threat to American democracy.
Economic Concerns and Global Impact
Concerns among the American populace are also rising regarding the economy after Trump announced a global tariff package imposing punitive duties on imports. This move is expected to burden the global economy and increase prices for American consumers.
Following the announcement of the controversial tariffs, Trump departed for a lengthy golf weekend in Florida, where he participated in a club championship, leaving the White House vacant as demonstrators gathered nearby. Protests also occurred in Florida against his policies.
International Protests
Demonstrations against Trump and Musk extended beyond the U.S., reaching European cities like Berlin, Rome, and Paris. In London, hundreds, including numerous Americans residing in the UK, participated in the protests.
In Berlin, a specific event targeting Musk drew hundreds in front of a Tesla showroom. While police reported around 250 attendees, organizers claimed the number was significantly higher.