On May 1, 2025, hundreds of thousands of demonstrators across the United States participated in May Day protests, voicing opposition to President Donald Trump's policies on immigration, labor rights, and government oversight. These nationwide demonstrations, organized by a coalition of labor unions, immigrant rights advocates, and legal professionals, took place in major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta.

The protests were a direct response to the administration's recent actions, such as aggressive immigration enforcement, proposed Medicaid cuts, and the influence of billionaire advisors on public policy. Participants criticized the administration for targeting legal professionals, detaining immigrants unjustly, and favoring billionaires over working families.

In New York City, hundreds of lawyers and their supporters gathered near courthouses in Lower Manhattan for a "National Rule of Law Day" rally, decrying the administration's perceived disrespect for the legal system. Later, thousands joined a May Day march carrying signs condemning Trump's immigration crackdown.

In Chicago, thousands marched from Union Park to downtown, culminating in a rally in Grant Park, opposing the administration's immigration and labor policies. The event was organized by a coalition of advocacy groups and is part of an annual tradition supporting pro-immigration and labor causes. Organizers estimate that over 70,000 people took part in similar demonstrations across the country.

In Los Angeles, a demonstration organized by the Los Angeles May Day Coalition featured speakers demanding protection for workers' and immigrants' rights under the slogan "One Struggle, One Fight — Workers Unite."

In Atlanta, hundreds, including retired CDC workers, gathered to protest anticipated job losses due to federal cuts, expressing concerns about the impact on public health.

Notable figures addressed the crowds during these protests. In New York, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez warned protesters about impending Medicaid cuts, stating, "They have only suspended the cuts to Medicaid." In Philadelphia, Senator Bernie Sanders denounced proposed Medicaid cuts and corporate overreach, emphasizing the need to protect workers' rights.

The protests occurred against a backdrop of significant policy changes and proposed cuts by the Trump administration. The administration has proposed cuts to Medicaid, the federal health insurance program for low-income Americans, raising concerns about access to healthcare for vulnerable populations. Additionally, the administration, with Elon Musk as a senior advisor, has initiated mass layoffs within federal departments, aiming to reduce the size of the government. This move has been criticized for undermining public services and worker protections.

The 2025 May Day protests are reminiscent of previous large-scale demonstrations. In 2006, massive protests occurred across the U.S. in response to proposed legislation criminalizing undocumented status. These demonstrations, known as "A Day Without Immigrants," highlighted the contributions of immigrants to U.S. society and economy. In 2017, May Day protests focused on worker and immigrant rights, with many demonstrators protesting against the policies of President Trump, specifically those related to immigration.

The 2025 May Day protests reflect a significant societal pushback against policies perceived as detrimental to workers' rights and immigrant communities. The widespread participation and the involvement of prominent figures suggest a collective demand for economic justice, protection of vulnerable populations, and adherence to democratic principles.