Politics

Massive “Hands Off” Protests Erupt Nationwide Against Trump’s Second-Term Policies and Elon Musk

In a powerful display of unity and defiance, millions of Americans took to the streets across all 50 states in early April 2025, Elon Musk joining what has been described as the largest coordinated protests since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Dubbed the “Hands Off!” movement, these demonstrations targeted Trump’s controversial second-term policies and the influential role of billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). From bustling cities like New York and Chicago to smaller towns in Alaska and Utah, the message was clear: “Hands off our jobs, our rights, and our democracy!”

A National Outcry Against Trump and Musk

The “Hands Off!” protests, which organizers estimate drew up to three million participants, were sparked by growing frustration with Trump’s aggressive policy moves and Musk’s sweeping government cuts. Since Trump took office in January 2025, his administration has pushed for mass deportations, new tariffs that have rattled the economy, and significant reductions in federal programs. These policies, coupled with Musk’s leadership in slashing government jobs and funding, have fueled widespread anger among diverse groups, including teachers, nurses, students, and environmental activists.

In Washington, D.C., tens of thousands gathered at the National Mall, waving signs and chanting slogans like “Hands off our future!” and “Stop the billionaire takeover!” In Boston, nearly 100,000 people flooded Boston Common, making it one of the largest single gatherings of the day. Protests weren’t limited to the U.S.—demonstrations also popped up in Canada, Mexico, and even London, where a protester dressed as the Statue of Liberty joined a rally in Trafalgar Square.

Why Are People Protesting?

At the heart of the “Hands Off!” movement is a deep concern over Trump’s policies and Musk’s unelected influence. Here are some of the key issues driving the protests:

Government Downsizing and Job Cuts: Musk’s DOGE has led to tens of thousands of federal job losses, with entire agencies facing budget cuts. Protesters, like Juneau resident Mike Williams, who carried a 24-foot sign reading “We’ve had it up to here,” expressed alarm over the impact on public services like education, healthcare, and veterans’ programs.
Economic Instability: Trump’s recent tariffs, including a 10% universal tariff and higher reciprocal tariffs, have been blamed for a stock market plunge and rising inflation. Demonstrators in Chicago and Los Angeles voiced fears that these policies are hurting working-class families and small businesses.
Attacks on Rights and Freedoms: The Trump administration’s moves to crack down on immigration, limit reproductive rights, and restrict free speech have drawn sharp criticism. Signs at rallies read “Hands off our bodies!” and “Protect our democracy!” reflecting anger over policies seen as authoritarian.
Environmental Concerns: Environmental groups, like the League of Conservation Voters, rallied against what they call “predatory politics” that threaten clean air, water, and public lands. Musk’s cuts to environmental agencies have only added fuel to the fire.
Musk’s Outsized Role: As the world’s richest man and a close Trump advisor, Musk has become a lightning rod for criticism. Protesters view his unelected position as a symbol of billionaire overreach, with signs in Wisconsin reading, “Wisconsin hates Elon Musk so much it could be one of his kids,” referencing his strained family ties.

Creative and Powerful Protest Signs

One of the standout features of the “Hands Off!” protests was the creativity and humor displayed on handmade signs. From clever jabs to biting commentary, these signs captured the mood of the movement. In Los Angeles, a protester’s sign read “Dogs against DOGE,” poking fun at Musk’s department. Another in Michigan declared “Orange Lies Matter,” a twist on the Black Lives Matter slogan aimed at Trump. In Wisconsin, a sign targeting Musk’s personal life drew chuckles from onlookers, including actor Bradley Whitford, who shared it on social media.

Other signs took aim at Trump’s past controversies, like one in Seattle referencing his infamous “grab them by the pussy” comment, repurposed to criticize Musk’s DOGE cuts. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, a protester’s sign read “TURD REICH NO!” with illustrations of Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Musk, earning applause for its bold imagery. These signs not only expressed outrage but also showcased the wit and resilience of the protesters.

Voices from the Streets

The protests brought together people from all walks of life, each with their own reasons for marching. James Utt, a demonstrator in Washington, D.C., shared his disbelief at Trump’s re-election and frustration with the administration’s economic policies. “I can’t believe he’s tanking the economy and the government, all for him and Elon Musk and the billionaires,” Utt said.

In Oakland, California, Juniper Tinker Ward waved a homemade sign, calling for protection of public services and workers’ rights. In Portland, Oregon, thousands rallied against what they described as an “illegal, billionaire power grab” by Trump and Musk. A protester in Kolkata, India, who joined a solidarity rally, compared the movement to the enduring spirit of Goddess Kali, declaring, “Elon Musk and Donald Trump are gonna go down in history as criminals.”

Musk and Trump Respond

Both Trump and Musk have faced the protests head-on, though their responses have done little to calm the crowds. Musk, active on X, dismissed the protests as orchestrated by “puppetmasters” and insisted his DOGE cuts are saving taxpayers billions. Trump, meanwhile, has doubled down on his policies, framing the protests as opposition to his “America First” agenda. The White House has remained tight-lipped on specific protest demands, with Trump reportedly frustrated by Musk’s high-profile role, including a recent incident where Musk was briefed on secret Pentagon plans without Trump’s prior knowledge.

A Movement Gaining Momentum

Organizers of the “Hands Off!” protests, backed by over 150 activist groups, emphasized their commitment to nonviolent action. “This peaceful movement is powered by everyday people—nurses, teachers, students, parents—who are rising up to protect what matters most,” a spokesperson said. The protests have been compared to historic mobilizations like the 2017 Women’s March and the 2020 Black Lives Matter demonstrations, signaling a growing resistance to Trump’s second term.

As the movement gains steam, social media has amplified its reach. Posts on X described “absolutely enormous crowd sizes” in cities like Madison, Richmond, and Raleigh, with hashtags like #HandsOff trending widely. Videos from Chicago showed marchers filling the streets, while photos from Boston captured the sheer scale of the turnout.

What’s Next for “Hands Off!”?

The “Hands Off!” protests mark a pivotal moment in Trump’s second term, highlighting deep divisions over his policies and Musk’s role. Organizers are already planning follow-up actions, including more rallies and campaigns to pressure Congress to curb the administration’s moves. With Musk reportedly stepping back from some government duties, protesters are watching closely to see if their message resonates.

For now, the “Hands Off!” movement has sent a resounding message: Americans are ready to fight for their rights, their jobs, and their democracy. As one sign in Anchorage, Alaska, put it, “We’re not going anywhere!” With millions mobilized and the world watching, this wave of resistance is only getting started.

Rajendra Chandre