Nationwide "Hands Off!" Protests Draw Thousands Across US

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in cities across the United States on Saturday as part of a coordinated "Hands Off!" protest movement that organizers say included over 1,200 rallies spanning all 50 states.

Source: The Guardian

Nationwide "Hands Off!" Protests

The demonstrations, backed by approximately 150 groups including civil rights organizations, labor unions, and various advocacy groups, expressed opposition to recent policies implemented by President Donald Trump's administration and concerns about billionaire Elon Musk's role in government.

In Boston, a large crowd assembled near Boston Common, where Mayor Michelle Wu addressed attendees. Aerial images from ABC News Live showed protesters carrying signs with messages about protecting democracy and social programs.

Economic Context

The protests coincide with recent economic developments, including the April 1 announcement of extensive tariffs on U.S. imports that reportedly contributed to significant stock market losses. According to NPR, markets experienced a $6 trillion decline in the two days following the announcement, raising concerns about potential trade conflicts with international partners.

Demonstrators expressed various concerns, with some questioning Musk's position in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has been tasked with reducing federal spending. The department, scheduled to operate until July 2026, aims to decrease the deficit by approximately one trillion dollars.

Major Protest Locations

In Washington, D.C., an estimated half-million people gathered at the National Mall. Other notable demonstrations took place in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. International solidarity events were also reported in European cities including London, Paris, and Lisbon.

Public Reaction

Social media reactions to the protests revealed divided opinions, with supporters highlighting specific policy concerns while critics questioned the protesters' motives and the potential effectiveness of the demonstrations.

The White House has not issued an official response to the nationwide protests. Reports from AP News earlier this week indicated that Musk's advisory role with the administration might be ending soon, citing his commitments to his private business interests.

Organizer Statements

Protest organizers from groups like MoveOn and Indivisible characterized the events as a response to what they describe as overreach in government policy. Representatives from these organizations, along with some Democratic lawmakers, addressed crowds in various locations.

The demonstrations remained largely peaceful, with no significant incidents or arrests reported by late Saturday.