Staff Reports
On Saturday, April 5, 2025, a wave of protests swept across the United States and beyond as demonstrators rallied under the banner of the “Hands Off!” movement. Organized to oppose President Donald Trump and his close advisor Elon Musk, the protests took place in over 1,400 locations, including state capitols, city halls, and even international cities like London and Paris. The movement has been described by its organizers as a response to what they call a “billionaire takeover” of American democracy, with widespread frustration over government downsizing, funding cuts to essential programs, and policies perceived as benefiting the wealthy elite at the expense of working Americans.
The protest in St. Paul, Minnesota, was among the largest in the country, drawing an estimated 14,000 participants to the state capitol. Demonstrators carried signs with slogans such as “Resist” and “Fight the Oligarchy,” expressing their anger over policies that have led to mass layoffs of federal workers and cuts to Medicaid and Social Security. Local leaders like U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy addressed the crowd, invoking historical struggles for civil rights and urging continued resistance against what they see as an erosion of democratic values.
Central to the protests was criticism of Elon Musk’s role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a controversial agency created under Trump’s administration. Musk’s initiatives have included eliminating over 200,000 federal jobs and closing Social Security offices nationwide. While proponents argue these measures save taxpayer dollars, critics contend they disproportionately harm vulnerable populations such as seniors, veterans, and low-income families. Protesters also highlighted concerns about broader assaults on civil liberties, including immigration crackdowns and reduced protections for marginalized communities.
Despite the widespread dissent, President Trump remained unmoved by the demonstrations. Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump defended his administration’s policies as necessary reforms to streamline government and protect American taxpayers. He dismissed the protests as partisan theatrics orchestrated by Democrats and special interest groups. Similarly, Musk has downplayed the backlash, emphasizing his commitment to efficiency and cost-cutting measures.
The “Hands Off!” movement underscores growing divisions within American society under Trump’s second term. While organizers hailed the protests as a powerful show of resistance against perceived authoritarianism and economic inequality, critics argue that such demonstrations often lack clear solutions or actionable goals. As these tensions continue to shape the political landscape, it remains uncertain whether this movement will translate into lasting change or serve as another flashpoint in an increasingly polarized nation.
