Opposition to President Donald Trump’s administration was evident as demonstrators gathered in various communities across the United States on Saturday, expressing concerns regarding perceived threats to the nation’s democratic values. The protests spanned from a march in midtown Manhattan and a rally near the White House to a demonstration in Massachusetts marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War’s inception. In San Francisco, protesters created a human banner with the message “Impeach & Remove” on the sands of Ocean Beach with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.
Thomas Bassford participated in the commemoration of the Battles of Lexington and Concord outside Boston. This historical event, known for its “shot heard ’round the world” on April 19, 1775, signaled the start of America’s fight for independence from Britain. Bassford, an 80-year-old retired mason from Maine, expressed his belief that Americans currently face threats from their own government and urged the need for resistance. He attended the event with his family, emphasizing the importance of teaching the younger generation about the nation’s origins and the ongoing struggle for freedom.
Additional protests targeted Tesla car dealerships, challenging billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk’s role in reducing the federal government. Other gatherings focused on community service activities, including food drives, educational sessions, and volunteering at local shelters.
The protests followed similar nationwide demonstrations held two weeks prior, which attracted thousands. Organizers cited President Trump’s alleged civil rights and constitutional violations as key issues, highlighting his attempts to deport immigrants and reduce the federal workforce, effectively closing government agencies.
Some events drew inspiration from the American Revolutionary War, emphasizing the rejection of tyranny and the call for “no kings.” George Bryant, a Boston resident protesting in Concord, expressed concerns about Trump’s actions leading to a “police state” and held a sign demanding the removal of what he described as a “Trump fascist regime.” He criticized Trump’s defiance of the courts, alleged kidnappings, and undermining of governmental checks and balances.
In Washington, Bob Fasick attended a rally by the White House, driven by fears for constitutionally protected rights and federal safety-net programs like Social Security. The Trump administration’s moves, including closing Social Security Administration offices and cutting health program funding, were points of contention.
Columbia, South Carolina, saw several hundred protesters at the statehouse, holding signs urging the protection of Social Security. Meanwhile, in Manhattan, marches against immigrant deportations proceeded from the New York Public Library towards Central Park, passing Trump Tower, with chants opposing ICE.
Marshall Green, a protester from New Jersey, voiced concerns over Trump’s invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, claiming a war with Venezuelan gangs. He asserted that Congress should reject such claims and uphold due process rights for all.
Melinda Charles from Connecticut was troubled by Trump’s “executive overreach,” citing conflicts with federal courts and institutions like Harvard University. She emphasized the necessity of maintaining the balance of power among the government’s three branches.