On Wednesday, people across the United States took to the streets to protest against President Donald Trump’s recent policies. Demonstrators gathered in cities including Philadelphia, Austin, Atlanta, Denver, and Phoenix, as well as at state capitols in California, Michigan, Minnesota, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Protesters voiced concerns over Trump’s strict immigration policies, his rollback of transgender rights, and a controversial proposal involving Palestinians in Gaza. They also criticized billionaire Elon Musk, who now leads the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and the conservative plan known as Project 2025.
A Nationwide Movement
Many of these protests were organized online under hashtags like #buildtheresistance and #50501, representing “50 protests, 50 states, one day.” Social media platforms played a key role in mobilizing people, urging them to “reject fascism” and “defend democracy.”
Margaret Wilmeth, protesting in Columbus, Ohio, said she was alarmed by the changes happening under Trump’s leadership. “I’m appalled by democracy’s changes, especially in the last two weeks,” she said.
In Lansing, Michigan, hundreds braved freezing temperatures to protest. Catie Miglietti, from Ann Arbor, held a sign showing Musk controlling Trump like a puppet, referencing a controversial salute Musk made during a speech. “If we don’t stop it, this is an attack on democracy,” she warned.
Concerns Over Elon Musk and DOGE
Many demonstrators focused their anger on Musk and his influence over the government. In Jefferson City, Missouri, protesters held signs reading, “DOGE is not legit” and “Why does Elon have your Social Security info?”
Lawmakers have raised concerns about Musk’s access to U.S. Treasury Department data, fearing risks to Social Security and Medicare payments. However, officials insist that Musk’s team only has “read-only” access to the system.
Growing Resistance
Trump’s executive orders on trade, climate change, and immigration have sparked backlash. Protests have grown in size, with people marching through major cities. In Phoenix, protesters chanted, “Deport Elon” and “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.”
In Alabama, hundreds gathered against a new law recognizing only two sexes—male and female. “The president does not have the power to define your identity,” said Rev. Julie Conrady, addressing the crowd.
As opposition grows, Americans continue to push back against Trump and Musk’s policies, demanding accountability and change.
