Thousands of demonstrators flooded streets across the United States on Saturday in what became the largest day of protest against President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk’s sweeping government restructuring plans. Over 1,200 coordinated events were held in all 50 states, with additional rallies in Canada, Mexico, and major European cities.
At the heart of the protests was growing outrage over the Trump administration’s rapid-fire efforts to consolidate presidential power, slash federal jobs, and restructure major institutions under Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). In Washington, D.C., more than 20,000 people gathered at the National Mall, braving rain to voice their concerns over immigration policies, economic tariffs, and social welfare cuts.
From retirees to first-time protestors, voices united over fears of losing Social Security, medical research funding, and democratic norms. Protestors in Baltimore specifically decried massive job cuts at the IRS and the Social Security Administration, while others highlighted threats to public education, climate policy, and healthcare.
Elon Musk’s controversial DOGE initiative has already led to over 200,000 federal job losses, including 25% of IRS staff, sparking public backlash and accusations of dismantling essential services.
Despite criticism, the White House defended its position, claiming Trump is protecting Social Security and Medicare, while accusing Democrats of risking those programs through expanded immigration benefits.
As rallies spread to Europe, the movement demonstrated growing global unease about the future of American democracy under Trump’s renewed leadership and Musk’s influence. Protesters say they will continue until their voices are heard and accountability is restored.