Over 1,200 “Hands Off!” protests were organised by more than 150 civil rights, labour and advocacy groups. Protesters accused Trump and DOGE director Elon Musk of orchestrating a “brazen power grab”.

Washington DC saw massive crowds near the National Mall, with emotional speeches and chants echoing through the capital. Many targeted Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, criticising mass job cuts and the downsizing of federal programmes.

Protesters raised placards defending social security, health care, housing and LGBTQ+ rights. Criticism also focused on Trump's new tariff policy, which protesters warned could spark economic recession.

Several demonstrators quoted Mahatma Gandhi and invoked symbols from Indian culture, calling for international unity. Demonstrations outside Trump’s Florida residence saw slogans and chants denouncing billionaire influence on policy.

Critics argued that Trump’s administration values profit over people, accusing it of dismantling democratic structures. While protests raged nationwide, Trump spent the day golfing at his Jupiter club and returned to Mar-a-Lago by evening.