Thousands braced freezing temperatures on Presidents Day to join anti-Trump and Elon Musk protests organized by the 50501 Movement. Dubbed “No Kings on Presidents Day”, these demonstrations followed a February 5th national rally, amplifying criticism of the administration’s ties to billionaire advisors and recent federal workforce reductions.
In Boston, nearly 1,000 activists marched through snow-covered streets from the Statehouse to City Hall. Chants of “Elon Musk has got to go!” echoed alongside Revolutionary War-era attire and signs like “Cowards Bow to Trump, Patriots Stand Up.” Subzero wind chills failed to deter participants like Emily Manning, who stated:
“American values aren’t about serving the ultra-wealthy. We’re here to protect democracy from plutocrats.”
Key rally locations included:
- Washington D.C. (“Deport Musk, Dethrone Trump” signs)
- Orlando and Seattle (smaller but vocal crowds)
- Madison, Wisconsin (AP-confirmed attendance)
The protests targeted Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, an external agency spearheading federal spending cuts that recently triggered layoffs. Critics argue these policies prioritize corporate interests over public welfare, with organizers emphasizing:
“The Trump administration’s anti-democratic actions cannot go unchallenged – especially when billionaires draft austerity measures.”
While the polar vortex suppressed turnout in some regions, persistent demonstrations reflect growing resistance to privatization efforts and executive overreach. Analysts suggest these rallies could influence upcoming debates about governmental transparency and corporate influence.