Millions Join 'Hands Off!' Protests Against Trump-Musk Administration

On April 5, 2025, millions of Americans participated in the "Hands Off!" protests, a nationwide demonstration against President Donald Trump's administration and his advisor, Elon Musk. Organized by a coalition of over 150 grassroots organizations—including the 50501 movement, Indivisible, and Women's March—the protests spanned all 50 U.S. states and several international cities, totaling more than 1,400 events. Organizers estimated participation between three to five million individuals nationwide.

The demonstrations addressed a range of grievances, including mass layoffs of federal employees, reductions in social services, and perceived authoritarian overreach by the administration. Protesters also expressed opposition to Musk's role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), citing concerns over the restructuring of federal agencies and the elimination of over 200,000 federal positions.

Major cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago saw substantial turnouts, with participants carrying signs reading "Protect our Constitution" and "Hands off our rights." Internationally, hundreds gathered in European cities like Paris, Berlin, and London to show solidarity with the U.S. protests.

The "Hands Off!" protests marked one of the largest coordinated acts of public dissent during Trump's second term, reflecting widespread concern over the administration's policies and actions.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), established by executive order on January 20, 2025, aims to modernize information technology, maximize productivity, and cut excess regulations and spending. Elon Musk, appointed as the head of DOGE, has been instrumental in restructuring federal agencies, leading to substantial layoffs and budget cuts.

The "Hands Off!" protests serve as a significant indicator of public sentiment regarding the Trump administration's policies and the role of Elon Musk in governmental restructuring. The widespread participation and diverse coalition of organizations involved highlight the depth of concern among citizens and the potential for sustained activism in the face of perceived governmental overreach.