Supporters from various backgrounds, including civil rights organizations, labor unions, LBGTQ+ groups, veterans, and election advocates, have joined forces across the country to speak out against the actions taken by President Donald Trump and the billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk.

Numerous “Hands Off!” protests, exceeding 1,200, were orchestrated by over 150 organizations to signify their disapproval of the administration and to protect essential social services.

Key locations such as the National Mall in Washington, D.C., state capitals, and major cities like Boston, Chicago, and New York, were the epicenters of the demonstrations.

Critics have voiced their discontent with the Trump administration’s decisions, which include the dismissal of federal employees, shutting down Social Security offices, dismantling entire agencies, deporting immigrants, reducing protections for the transgender community, and cutting funding for critical health programs.

Elon Musk, a close advisor to Trump and CEO of companies such as Tesla and SpaceX, plays a significant role in government downsizing. He heads the recently created Department of Government Efficiency, which has sparked concerns over potential impacts on social safety nets.

In Boston, thousands gathered with signs, advocating for the protection of democracy, social security, and diversity. Similarly, in Ohio, crowds braved rain to protest at the Statehouse in Columbus, with thousands marching across New York City. Demonstrations were also held in Florida, close to Trump’s Jacksonville golf course.

While these demonstrations are not the first to challenge Trump and Musk, the movement has yet to see widespread mobilization. The White House stated that “the President is committed to safeguarding Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible American beneficiaries.”

However, the White House also accused Democrats of advocating for the extension of benefits to undocumented immigrants, a claim that lacks evidence and suggests this could lead to the financial insolvency of these essential programs.