April 5 (Reuters) - Thousands of protesters gathered in Washington, D.C., and across the U.S. on Saturday, part of some 1,200 demonstrations that were expected to form the largest single day of protest against President Donald Trump and his billionaire ally Elon Musk since they launched a rapid-fire effort to overhaul government and expand presidential authority.
People streamed onto the expanse of grass surrounding the Washington Monument under gloomy skies and light rain. Organizers told Reuters that more than 20,000 people were expected to attend a rally at the National Mall.
Some 150 activist groups had signed up to participate, according to the event's website. Protests were planned in all 50 states plus Canada and Mexico.
Terry Klein, a retired biomedical scientist from Princeton, New Jersey, was among those who gathered by the stage beneath the Washington Monument.
She said she drove down to attend the rally to protest Trump’s policies on “everything from immigration to the DOGE stuff to the tariffs this week, to education. I mean, our whole country is under attack, all of our institutions, all the things that make America what it is.”
The crowd around the memorial continued to build throughout the day. Some carried Ukrainian flags and others wore Palestinian keffiyeh scarves and carried “Free Palestine” signs, while Democrats from the U.S. House of Representatives blasted Trump's policies on stage.
Wayne Hoffman, 73, a retired money manager from West Cape May, New Jersey, said he was concerned about Trump's economic policies, including his widespread use of tariffs.
"It's going to cost the farmers in the red states. It's going to cost people their jobs - certainly their 401Ks. People have lost tens of thousands of dollars," Hoffman said.
Kyle, a 20-year-old intern from Ohio, was a lone Trump er, sporting a “Make America Great Again” hat and walking the fringe of the Washington, D.C., rally while engaging protesters in debate. “Most people aren’t too hostile. A few people cuss,” said Kyle, who declined to give his last name.
Trump, who shook financial markets and upset nations around the world with a raft of trade tariffs this week, spent the day in Florida, playing a round of golf at his club in Jupiter before returning to his Mar-a-Lago compound in the afternoon. Some four miles (6 km) from Mar-a-Lago in West Palm Beach, more than 400 demonstrators gathered on a sunny day in protest. Drivers honked their horns in of the pastel-and khaki-clad demonstrators as they ed by. "Markets tank, Trump golfs," read one sign.
At another protest in Stamford, Connecticut, Sue-ann Friedman, 84, brought a bright pink, handmade sign objecting to the istration's moves to cut funding for medical research.
"I thought my marching days were over, and then we get somebody like Musk and Trump," said Friedman.
Paul Kretschmann, a 74-year-old retired attorney in Stamford, said it was the first time he had ever attended a protest. "My concern is that Social Security is going to be gutted, that we're going to lose our benefits, and that there's going to be nobody around to ister it in the first place," he said. "I'm afraid that this is all part of a larger plan to dismantle the government and for Trump to maintain power."
DOGE UNDER FIRE
With Trump's blessing, Musk's Department of Government Efficiency team has scythed through the U.S. government, eliminating more than 200,000 jobs from the 2.3 million federal workforce. At times, the effort has been haphazard and forced the recall of needed specialists.
On Friday, the Internal Revenue Service began laying off more than 20,000 workers, as much as 25% of its ranks. Several hundred people gathered outside the headquarters of the Social Security istration, a top DOGE target, near Baltimore to protest against cuts to the agency which delivers benefits to the elderly and disabled.
Linda Falcao, who turns 65 in two months, told the crowd she had been paying into the Social Security fund since the age of 16. “I'm terrified, I’m angry, I’m pissed, I’m bewildered this could happen to the United States,” she said. “I do love America and I’m heartbroken. I need my money. I want my money. I want my benefits!” The crowd chanted, “It’s our money!”
White House assistant press secretary Liz Huston disputed the protesters' charge that Trump aimed to cut Social Security and Medicaid.
"President Trump's position is clear: he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats' stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors," Huston said in an email.
Much of Trump's agenda has been restrained by lawsuits contending he has overstepped his authority with attempts to fire civil servants, deport immigrants and reverse transgender rights.
Trump returned to office on January 20 with a stream of executive orders and other measures critics say are aligned with an agenda outlined by Project 2025, a deeply conservative political initiative to reshape government and consolidate presidential authority. His ers have applauded Trump's audacity as necessary to disrupt entrenched liberal interests.
Hours before the protests were due to kick off in the United States, hundreds of anti-Trump Americans living in Europe gathered in Berlin, Frankfurt, Paris and London to voice opposition to Trump's sweeping makeover of U.S. foreign and domestic policies.
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Check the link posted above where Trump is even facing opposition within the GOP. If your 401k or investment is losing money as per the $2.5 Trillion wiped out from the stock market yesterday or that car you are eying that's going up by $4000 or the cost of maple leaf syrup and wine you buy from Canada and Europe, or the cost of iphone and Nike manufactured on China and vietnam respectively are all going up, you will gladly the protest too . Unlike Nigerians, Americans are not docile.
The LGBTQ+ and gay activities they sponsored through world bank and USAID is the reason for all these protests....
I understand your frustration, but I think it's important to look at the bigger picture. While you frown upon LGBTQ+ initiatives, it's worth noting that Trump's economic policies and the ongoing trade war are having significant impacts on everyday Americans. These issues often affect people more directly than the cultural debates. The protests may have multiple causes, and focusing solely on one aspect might overlook the broader economic challenges many are facing.
I understand your frustration, but I think it's important to look at the bigger picture. While you frown upon LGBTQ+ initiatives, it's worth noting that Trump's economic policies and the ongoing trade war are having significant impacts on everyday Americans. These issues often affect people more directly than the cultural debates. The protests may have multiple causes, and focusing solely on one aspect might overlook the broader economic challenges many are facing.
Trump said inflation would reduce from day one and the stocks will keep rising, the opposite is what's happening now.
I understand your frustration, but I think it's important to look at the bigger picture. While you frown upon LGBTQ+ initiatives, it's worth noting that Trump's economic policies and the ongoing trade war are having significant impacts on everyday Americans. These issues often affect people more directly than the cultural debates. The protests may have multiple causes, and focusing solely on one aspect might overlook the broader economic challenges many are facing.
As a foreign observer, I believe President Trump's economic policies, particularly his tariffs, are a strategic move to boost the US economy. The Trump tariffs aim to level the playing field for American businesses and workers by imposing taxes on imported goods. This approach has both ers and critics, but it is designed to protect US industries, generate revenue, and stimulate domestic production and investment. While the tariffs may lead to higher prices for consumers and reduced economic growth in the short term, they can also be seen as a negotiating tool to secure more favorable trade agreements with other countries. The tariffs imposed on China, Canada, and Mexico, as well as those on steel and aluminum, are specific examples of this policy in action. Overall, Trump's tariffs are a complex and multifaceted policy aimed at promoting American economic interests.
Check the link posted above where Trump is even facing opposition within the GOP. If your 401k or investment is losing money as per the $2.5 Trillion wiped out from the stock market yesterday or that car you are eying that's going up by $4000 or the cost of maple leaf syrup and wine you buy from Canada and Europe, or the cost of iphone and Nike manufactured on China and vietnam respectively are all going up, you will gladly the protest too . Unlike Nigerians, Americans are not docile.
Bro...... Opposition within the GOP is real, but doesn't necessarily threaten Trump's agenda. Presidents often face internal party conflicts. Policy disagreements are normal. The GOP is a diverse party with different views.
Also, The tariff is to ensure that American goods produced in the US are cheaper and to ensure that Americans began to produce more of what they want.. it'll also push foreign investors to establish their production companies in the US, that way, they can pay tax to the US government.
Comparing Americans to Nigerians is subjective and oversimplifies complex cultural and societal differences. Cultural and historical contexts differ. Economic conditions are vastly different. Protest movements have different goals and outcomes.
Sometimes reading folks like you here can be quite a chore!
That the stock exchange lost $2.5trillion in one fell swoop is media sensation and misinformation?
That inflation is hitting harder for Americans is also a left wing or right wing thing right?
A cursory read by of your submission shows you lack depth of the issues at stake, no wonder na AI you take simplify am!
If you listen to media outlets sponsored to criticize the Trump's istration, you'd never get the real gist.... and it will be difficult to explain anything to you. I'd rather excuse your ignorance.
Bro...... Opposition within the GOP is real, but doesn't necessarily threaten Trump's agenda. Presidents often face internal party conflicts. Policy disagreements are normal. The GOP is a diverse party with different views.
Also, Economic downturns can spark protests, but responses vary depending on individual circumstances and societal factors. Market fluctuations are common. The US economy is resilient. Protests can be driven by various factors.
Comparing Americans to Nigerians is subjective and oversimplifies complex cultural and societal differences. Cultural and historical contexts differ. Economic conditions are vastly different. Protest movements have different goals and outcomes.
Who are you trying to impress with this AI generatee text?
If you listen to media outlets sponsored to criticize the Trump's istration, you'd never get the real gist.... and it will be difficult to explain anything to you. I'd rather excuse your ignorance.
Of course it's always about " sponsored media outlets", MSM as you all are force fed to talk rote!
Hmm
You know it's a lethal mixture being ignorant and arrogant at the same time.
Hope you don't go ask AI how to respond to my comment?
As a foreign observer, I believe President Trump's economic policies, particularly his tariffs, are a strategic move to boost the US economy. The Trump tariffs aim to level the playing field for American businesses and workers by imposing taxes on imported goods. This approach has both ers and critics, but it is designed to protect US industries, generate revenue, and stimulate domestic production and investment. While the tariffs may lead to higher prices for consumers and reduced economic growth in the short term, they can also be seen as a negotiating tool to secure more favorable trade agreements with other countries. The tariffs imposed on China, Canada, and Mexico, as well as those on steel and aluminum, are specific examples of this policy in action. Overall, Trump's tariffs are a complex and multifaceted policy aimed at promoting American economic interests.
I appreciate your viewpoint, but I must disagree with the assessment of Trump's economic policies. While the intention behind the tariffs may be to protect American industries, the reality is that these policies often backfire, leading to higher consumer prices and job losses in sectors reliant on exports.
Moreover, the claim that tariffs stimulate domestic production overlooks the broader economic context. Many industries faced increased costs for raw materials due to tariffs, which ultimately stifled growth and innovation. For example, sectors like manufacturing and agriculture have reported significant job losses and revenue declines as a direct result of retaliatory tariffs.
I appreciate your viewpoint, but I must disagree with the assessment of Trump's economic policies. While the intention behind the tariffs may be to protect American industries, the reality is that these policies often backfire, leading to higher consumer prices and job losses in sectors reliant on exports.
Moreover, the claim that tariffs stimulate domestic production overlooks the broader economic context. Many industries faced increased costs for raw materials due to tariffs, which ultimately stifled growth and innovation. For example, sectors like manufacturing and agriculture have reported significant job losses and revenue declines as a direct result of retaliatory tariffs.
There's no policy without its negativity.... but then it comes with a whole lot of new things and Americans will have to adjust to the new conditions.
Also, if you recall I pointed out that it will not last for long. The president is meeting with these countries to explain the policies to them.... with time, and in a short while, all things will fall into places.
I appreciate your viewpoint, but I must disagree with the assessment of Trump's economic policies. While the intention behind the tariffs may be to protect American industries, the reality is that these policies often backfire, leading to higher consumer prices and job losses in sectors reliant on exports.
Moreover, the claim that tariffs stimulate domestic production overlooks the broader economic context. Many industries faced increased costs for raw materials due to tariffs, which ultimately stifled growth and innovation. For example, sectors like manufacturing and agriculture have reported significant job losses and revenue declines as a direct result of retaliatory tariffs.
The problem with the likes of the fellow you mentioned is they only see what they want to see-their tin god who can never be wrong!
To them somehow only democrats feel the pinch of these policies!
There's no policy without its negativity.... but then it comes with a whole lot of new things and Americans will have to adjust to the new conditions.
Also, if you recall I pointed out that it will not last for long. The president is meeting with these countries to explain the policies to them.... with time, and in a short while, all things will fall into places.
I do know the challenges that comes with new policies and I’m not aware of any recent meetings between Trump and other countries regarding tariffs. But engaging with them on this issue should have been his first move. Open dialogue could have helped prevent many of the negative impacts we’re seeing now.
I do know the challenges that comes with new policies and I’m not aware of any recent meetings between Trump and other countries regarding tariffs. But engaging with them on this issue should have been his first move. Open dialogue could have helped prevent many of the negative impacts we’re seeing now.
It's a reciprocal tariff....
Trump told these countries not to counter hike their tariff on America's goods.
But he announced that he was going to have a discussion with these countries.
Again, you are ignorant and you really are a dummy!
I made reference to using AI to simplify what you don't understand... and you sounded like using AI is a crime In 2025?
How low can you get?
Lol...you were mentioned with verifiable facts about the current state of the US economy and instead of responding (since you were acting like the policies were the next best thing after slice bread), you quickly switched a tab and asked chatgpt to help you respond to a simple comment and you copied it without any input to seem knowledgeable.
Now look in the mirror and tell us who the dummy is. You see your life!
You forgot that some of us know AI content when we see one!
And hey I don't need AI to make sense of the tariff policy, the jury is out already!
Tip: AI is no crime but next time read the generated content and make sense of it (that's if you can) then write what you glean from it in your own words!
You wish you can delete that AI comment of yours abi? Sorry
The problem with the likes of the fellow you mentioned is they only see what they want to see-their tin god who can never be wrong!
To them somehow only democrats feel the pinch of these policies!
It can be clearer than you have outlined it!
I can relate to your point. . I really wish that they see the broader picture regarding Trump's policies. It’s important to recognize that these decisions can impact people across the political spectrum, not just one side.
Trump told these countries not to counter hike their tariff on America's goods.
But he announced that he was going to have a discussion with these countries.
I see your point about reciprocal tariffs. However, Trump can’t have it both ways. He can’t expect countries not to raise tariffs on American goods while also imposing his own tariffs.
Lol...you were mentioned with verifiable facts about the current state of the US economy and instead of responding (since you were acting like the policies were the next best thing after slice bread), you quickly switched a tab and asked chatgpt to help you respond to a simple comment and you copied it without any input to seem knowledgeable.
Now look in the mirror and tell us who the dummy is. You see your life!
You forgot that some of us know AI content when we see one!
And hey I don't need AI to make sense of the tariff policy, the jury is out already!
Tip: AI is no crime but next time read the generated content and make sense of it (that's if you can) then write what you glean from it in your own words!
You wish you can delete that AI comment of yours abi? Sorry
I don free you, go sleep!
Again, you're ignorant.
You assumed I asked AI for a respond over what I see everyday in the news? I only asked you to the policy and asked AI to simply that for you. And you really think everyone here is a dummy like you because you think a sound argument is AI generated?
I see your point about reciprocal tariffs. However, Trump can’t have it both ways. He can’t expect countries not to raise tariffs on American goods while also imposing his own tariffs.
The effect will be endless......
Nigeria for instance increased their tariff on foreign goods including goods from the US to about 35% for general tariffs and 20% for import duty... Note that foreign rice was increased to 100% tariff.
Trump increased its tariffs to 20% to 54% depending on the country.
If these countries increased, US will also increase.
So it's a reciprocal tariff and why are these countries aggrieved? They were enjoying their moments placing foreign goods on higher tariffs