Over 1,000 ‘Hands Off’ Protests Erupt Nationwide Against Trump’s Policies

More than 1,000 coordinated protests swept across the United States on Saturday as citizens rallied against what organizers describe as former President Donald Trump’s authoritarian policies and billionaire-influenced governance.

The national movement, titled “Hands Off”, drew participation from over 500,000 demonstrators in cities across all 50 states. From the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to streets in California, Florida, and Alaska, the message was unified: defend democracy, human rights, and civil liberties.

In Washington, D.C., tens of thousands gathered at the National Mall, many holding signs reading “Hands Off Democracy”, “Stop Authoritarian Rule”, and “Protect Our Future.” Attendees included civic activists, families, veterans, and lawmakers.

Participants traveled from nearby and distant states, including New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, underscoring the national scope of the demonstrations.

High-profile political leaders, including Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), and Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL), addressed the crowd with powerful speeches condemning efforts to undermine constitutional norms.

“If they think they can quietly dismantle our democracy, they’re mistaken,” said Raskin.
“The people are awake, and we will not be silenced.”

Leah Greenberg, Executive Director of Indivisible, said the protests aim to build visible resistance:

“We want our political institutions to see that Americans will not sit idly by while democracy is under attack.”

From Hollywood, Florida, to Ventura, California, and even Anchorage, Alaska, protests carried a variety of themes: economic justice, LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and the protection of democratic institutions.

In Florida, crowds gathered near Mar-a-Lago, denouncing the administration’s ties to corporate elites like Elon Musk. Chants of “Trump and Musk have got to go” rang out as protesters marched past Tesla dealerships and local government offices.

In California, families and elderly citizens voiced concerns over threats to Social Security, healthcare access, and climate action rollbacks.

Many demonstrators voiced concerns over what they view as increasing authoritarianism, legal overreach, and policies favoring the wealthy at the expense of average Americans.

“This is about the future of our children, our economy, and our freedoms,” said Sandy Friedman, a 68-year-old retired teacher in Ventura.
“We won’t sit back while our rights are stripped away.”