Demonstrators gathered in cities across the U.S. on Wednesday. They protested the Trump administration’s latest actions, including stricter immigration laws, the rollback of transgender rights, and a plan to forcibly relocate Palestinians from Gaza.
Protesters Target Trump, Musk, and Project 2025
In response, people took to the streets in Philadelphia and several state capitals, including California, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, and Indiana. Many held signs condemning President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk, and Project 2025, a far-right plan to reshape the government.
Meanwhile, in Columbus, Ohio, Margaret Wilmeth voiced her concerns. “I’m appalled by democracy’s changes in the last, well, specifically two weeks — but it started a long time ago,” she said. “So I’m just trying to put a presence into resistance.”
Online Campaign Fuels Nationwide Demonstrations
Notably, these protests gained momentum through online campaigns using hashtags like #buildtheresistance and #50501. Activists called for protests in all 50 states on the same day. Furthermore, social media posts urged people to “reject fascism” and “defend our democracy.”
Despite freezing temperatures, hundreds gathered outside the Michigan Capitol. Similarly, in Ann Arbor, Catie Miglietti raised concerns about Musk’s growing influence. She carried a sign depicting Musk controlling Trump like a puppet. Her artwork referenced Musk’s January gesture, which some interpreted as a Nazi salute. “If we don’t stop it and get Congress to do something, it’s an attack on democracy,” she warned.
Anger Grows Over DOGE and Social Security Data
At the same time, many protesters voiced their opposition to Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). For instance, in Jefferson City, Missouri, one sign read, “DOGE is not legit.” Another asked, “Why does Elon have your Social Security info???”
Similarly, lawmakers have expressed concerns about DOGE’s role in government payment systems. They fear security risks for programs like Social Security and Medicare. However, a Treasury official claimed that DOGE executives would have only “read-only access.”
Protests Intensify as Trump Signs More Orders
Meanwhile, Trump has issued several executive orders on trade, immigration, and climate policies. As a result, opposition has grown, and protests have intensified nationwide.
For example, in Austin, Texas, demonstrators marched downtown. Likewise, in Atlanta, they gathered at Centennial Olympic Park before heading to Georgia’s Capitol. At the same time, protesters in Sacramento stood outside California’s Democratic-controlled Legislature.
In Denver, demonstrations coincided with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Authorities detained several people. Meanwhile, in Phoenix, protesters chanted, “Deport Elon” and “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.”
Additionally, Laura Wilde, a former public school therapist in Austin, urged action. “We need to show strength,” she said. “I think we’re in a state of shock.”
Clashes Erupt at Iowa Capitol
In St. Paul, Minnesota, thousands gathered. Among them, 28-year-old Hallie Parten carried a modified Democratic campaign sign reading, “Harris Walz Were Right.” She explained her motivation: “Fear for what is going to happen to our country if we don’t all just do something about it.”
Likewise, in Des Moines, anti-Trump protesters stormed Iowa’s Capitol. They disrupted an event by Moms for Liberty, a conservative parental rights group. For about 15 minutes, they shouted over speakers. Eventually, police intervened and removed four people in handcuffs.
Alabama Demonstrators Oppose Anti-LGBTQ+ Law
Meanwhile, in Alabama, several hundred protesters gathered outside the Statehouse. They opposed new laws targeting LGBTQ+ rights. Just a day earlier, Governor Kay Ivey had promised to sign a bill defining sex as strictly male or female. Trump had issued a similar federal order.
Addressing the crowd, Reverend Julie Conrady, a Unitarian Universalist minister, challenged the law. “The president thinks he has a lot of power,” she said. “He does not have the power to determine your gender. He does not have the power to define your identity.”
A Movement Gains Strength
Ultimately, these protests demonstrated a growing resistance to Trump’s policies. As his administration continues issuing executive orders, activists are likely to return to the streets.
