The United States witnessed a wave of protests in multiple states against President Donald Trump's recent policies and executive actions. Protesters rallied under the hashtag #50501, signifying 50 protests in 50 states on one day.
Demonstrations took place on Wednesday in response to policies including stricter immigration measures, the rollback of transgender rights, and a proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza. Protesters carried signs saying "No human is illegal," as the administration implemented measures to remove undocumented migrants. They also protested actions targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, following Trump's executive order restricting gender-affirming care for minors.
The controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza sparked widespread condemnation. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham stated, "The idea of Americans going in on the ground in Gaza is a nonstarter for every senator." Concerns were also raised about Project 2025, a policy framework outlining a hard-right agenda, which, according to BBC reporter Mike Wendling, "would expand presidential power and impose an ultra-conservative social vision."
Protests also targeted foreign aid cuts. In Washington, D.C., demonstrators, including Democratic lawmakers and nonprofit workers, rallied against the administration's decision to furlough nearly all employees at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The USAID oversees U.S. global humanitarian aid and development programs. Protesters held signs reading "USAID saves lives."
Protests also targeted billionaire Elon Musk, appointed as head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Concerns were raised about Musk's access to sensitive Treasury data, with fears of potential security issues.
Demonstrations unfolded in major cities and state capitols across the country, including Lansing, Michigan; St. Paul, Minnesota; Alabama; Iowa; Austin, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; Sacramento, California; Denver, Colorado; and Phoenix, Arizona.
Trump has signed a series of executive orders in the opening weeks of his new term, rolling back his predecessor's policies on immigration, climate, and social issues. The protests across the United States signal mounting resistance to his administration's agenda.