Mass Protests Erupt Across U.S. Against Trump and Musk’s Influence

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, millions of individuals across the United States and in cities worldwide participated in “Hands Off!” protests, expressing opposition to President Donald Trump’s administration and the influential role of tech entrepreneur Elon Musk. These demonstrations, organized by a coalition of progressive groups including Indivisible, MoveOn, and Third Act, aimed to challenge what they describe as a “hostile takeover” of the government.

Nationwide Demonstrations

Protests occurred in all 50 U.S. states, with significant gatherings in major cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. In Washington, D.C., organizers estimated that over 500,000 people assembled on the National Mall, making it one of the largest demonstrations in recent years. Demonstrators voiced concerns over policies perceived as authoritarian and detrimental to civil liberties.

International Solidarity

The movement extended beyond U.S. borders, with protests held in European cities including Berlin, London, Paris, and Rome. In Berlin, thousands gathered at the Brandenburg Gate, criticizing the Trump administration’s policies and expressing solidarity with American protesters.

Key Issues Highlighted

Protesters addressed a range of issues, including:

Immigration Policies: Opposition to stringent immigration measures and mass deportations.
Civil Liberties: Concerns over perceived attacks on democratic institutions and individual rights.
Economic Policies: Criticism of recent tariff implementations and their economic impact.
Influence of Wealth in Politics: Apprehension regarding the growing involvement of billionaires like Elon Musk in governmental affairs.

Organizers’ Statements

Leaders of the “Hands Off!” movement emphasized the need for collective action to safeguard democratic values. They called for an end to policies they view as oppressive and urged citizens to remain vigilant and engaged.

Government Response

As of now, the Trump administration has not issued an official response to the protests. Political analysts suggest that the widespread demonstrations may influence upcoming legislative agendas and the administration’s approach to contested policies.

Conclusion

The “Hands Off!” protests represent a significant moment of civic engagement, reflecting deep-seated concerns among a broad segment of the population. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these demonstrations will impact the political landscape and policy decisions moving forward.

For a visual overview of the protests in New York, you can watch the following coverage: