Mass Protests Across the U.S.: Millions Rally Against Trump and Musk

Millions of Americans have taken to the streets to protest the policies of President Donald Trump. As reported by Reuters, approximately five major protests are scheduled for April 2025, spanning all 50 states and extending to territories in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Mexico, and Portugal. United under the rallying cry “Hands Off Our Democracy,” these demonstrations represent the largest expression of dissent since Trump’s inauguration in January.

The protests have been ignited by a series of executive orders and administrative decisions which organizers argue undermine the core principles of American democracy and threaten social stability. A notable shift in the discourse has emerged, with demonstrators reinterpreting the Trumpist slogan “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) to “Make Elon Go Away” (MEGA). This change highlights growing frustration with billionaire Elon Musk, who, as head of Trump’s Department of Government Effectiveness (DOGE), has spearheaded significant cuts to the federal budget and various government programs. Critics accuse Musk of prioritizing corporate interests over essential social benefits such as Medicare and Social Security, a concern that resonates deeply with the protesters.

Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible and a key figure in organizing the protests, stated that the goal is to deliver a clear message to Trump, Musk, and their congressional allies: Americans will not stand idly by while democratic institutions are dismantled. The largest protest is anticipated to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., where thousands have already begun to gather despite the rain. Organizers estimate that nationwide participation could exceed half a million, marking the largest protests since the Vietnam War era.

The impact of the protests has extended beyond U.S. borders, garnering international support. In cities like Paris and Berlin, American expatriates and locals joined forces with the Hands Off! movement. In London, demonstrators congregated in Trafalgar Square, holding signs that read “Proud American Ashamed,” condemning Trump’s tariff policies and threats to allies. Meanwhile, protests in Canada have included calls to boycott American goods in response to the imposition of 25% tariffs on imports, which has adversely affected the Canadian economy. In Mexico, demonstrators voiced concerns over proposed deportations and stricter border controls.

National media outlets, including AP News, highlight the broad coalition behind the movement, which includes labor unions, civil rights organizations, and environmental groups. In California, protests have focused on the repeal of programs aiding migrants, while in Texas, demonstrators have rallied against cuts to education and healthcare services.