Thousands of demonstrators flooded streets nationwide on Saturday to voice opposition to key Trump administration policies, including sweeping federal downsizing led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), immigration reform measures, and the imposition of reciprocal tariffs. The “Hands Off!” movement staged over 1,200 rallies, headlined by a massive gathering at the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
In addition to the nation’s capital, major protests took place in cities such as New York, Cleveland, Philadelphia, and Lansing. While most events remained peaceful, a significant police presence was maintained throughout the day.
Protesters carried signs denouncing budget cuts, mass deportations, the Israel-Hamas war, and the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. DOGE also became a major target for activists critical of its aggressive government streamlining programs and its association with Elon Musk.
Speaking at the D.C. rally, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) accused the Trump administration of “lawlessness” and praised judicial pushback. “We are winning in court,” Raskin declared, citing dozens of injunctions issued by judges against administration actions. He went on to label President Trump an “economy-crashing dictator.”
In response, the White House doubled down on its platform, issuing a firm statement through the Associated Press: “President Trump’s position is clear: He will always protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
Despite the political heat, the National Park Service praised the peaceful nature of the demonstrations and the efforts of law enforcement. A spokesperson said officers “secured the historic monuments in our nation’s capital, and protected the First Amendment rights of all in attendance.”
With tensions running high and a heated election year underway, Saturday’s protests highlighted the deep divisions over the Trump administration’s policy direction — and the growing resistance it continues to face nationwide.
