Massive Anti-Trump Protests Erupt Nationwide

 

Nationwide Protests Target Trump Policies as Discontent Grows

Thousands of demonstrators rallied across the United States on Saturday in a coordinated wave of protests against recent actions taken by President Donald Trump.

Branded as "50501"—a nod to “50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement”—the nationwide demonstrations were deliberately timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolutionary War. Protesters gathered in city centers, outside the White House, near Tesla dealerships, and in numerous other locations to voice concerns ranging from immigration policy to government spending cuts.

One of the central issues highlighted by demonstrators was the deportation of Kilmar Ábrego García, a U.S. resident who was mistakenly sent to El Salvador. Many called for his return and criticized the administration's lack of action on the matter.

Recent polling data suggests Trump’s popularity may be slipping. According to Gallup, his approval rating in the first quarter of his term stands at 45%, up from 41% during the same period of his first presidency, but still well below the 60% average for past presidents. A separate Reuters/Ipsos poll found his approval rating on the economy has declined from 42% on Inauguration Day to just 37%.

Outside the White House

Saturday’s protests followed the massive "Hands Off" rallies held earlier in April, which drew hundreds of thousands nationwide. While not as large, the 50501 events underscored growing unrest, particularly over initiatives by the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), Trump’s cost-cutting program aimed at reducing federal jobs and spending.

In Washington, protester Gihad Elgendy told CNN he joined the rally near the White House to denounce the deportation of Ábrego García. “Trump could easily pressure El Salvador to bring him back,” Elgendy said.

Though largely peaceful, tensions did flare in some areas. Representative Suhas Subramanyam, a Democrat, shared a video on X showing a man wielding a Trump sign aggressively pushing through a crowd to confront him.

Outside the White House

Many protest signs carried slogans like “No Kings,” a direct reference to the country’s revolutionary roots. Similar messages appeared during commemorations in Massachusetts, where people marked the anniversaries of the battles of Lexington and Concord, and Paul Revere’s historic midnight ride. Boston also hosted a 50501 demonstration on Saturday.

“This is a very perilous time in America for liberty,” said Thomas Bassford, who attended the Boston protest with his family. “I wanted the boys to learn about the origins of this country—and that sometimes we have to fight for freedom.”