Nationwide “Hands Off” Protests Target Trump and Musk Policies

Protests Across Michigan Highlight Opposition to Trump and Musk Policies

In a resounding show of dissent, residents of Michigan joined thousands across the nation on Saturday to protest against policies enacted by President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. These events were part of a larger movement dubbed “Hands Off,” which saw over 1,200 demonstrations planned by a coalition of more than 150 groups nationwide.

The rallies focused on concerns over government downsizing, economic policy, human rights, and other pressing issues. Civil rights organizations, labor unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans, and fair-elections activists were among those participating.

In Michigan, demonstrations occurred from Marquette and Sault Ste Marie in the north to Detroit and Grand Rapids in the south.

Lansing saw thousands gather at the state capitol, unified in their chants of “Hands-Off” amidst a sea of homemade signs. Colton Hughes, a state committeeman with the group 50/51 and a co-organizer of the rally, emphasized the importance of sending a message to government leaders. “We want to send a message to the oligarchs and people in our federal government who think that they can do whatever they want and take away benefits and rights from the American people. We’re not going to stand for that,” Hughes stated.

In Ann Arbor, the protests were marked by a large rally and march along Washtenaw Avenue, drawing a massive turnout. A secondary, less structured protest also attracted hundreds. At one of the city’s busiest intersections, the sound of car horns echoed as passing vehicles showed their support for the demonstrators.

A protester’s sign boldly declared, “Hands Off: free elections!!! Free speech! Canada! Social Security!! Women’s Rights!!” reflecting the wide array of issues participants were advocating for.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment about the protests. President Trump, however, has consistently defended his policies as beneficial to the nation’s interests.

Many demonstrators voiced their opposition to Elon Musk, criticizing his involvement in the administration’s cost-cutting measures. Musk, who leads Tesla, SpaceX, and social media platform X, has taken a central role in restructuring government operations as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk claims his efforts have saved taxpayers billions of dollars.