Thousands Hold 'Hands Off!' Rallies Across US Against Trump, Musk

Rising Anger in US Over 'Brazen Power Grab' While Trump's Sweeping Tariffs Spark Protests in Europe

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WASHINGTON — Thousands of people descended on Washington's National Mall on April 5 and rallied in other cities across the United States and abroad in opposition to the policies of Mr. Donald Trump, in the largest protests since he returned to the presidency.

A big "Hands off!" banner stretched across the stage of an outdoor theater just a few blocks from the White House, with protesters holding signs that read "Not my president!", "Fascism has arrived", "Hands off our Social Security" and "Wake up and smell the coup".

Ms. Jane Ellen Saums, 66, said she was dismayed to see the Trump administration dismantling America's longstanding democratic institutions.

"It's extremely concerning to see what is happening to our government, and all of the checks and balances that have been put in place that are being totally run over everything from the environment to personal rights," said the real estate worker who came dressed as Mother Nature, wrapped in ivy and holding a globe.

At a time of spreading global resentment against the Republican President — heightened by his announcement on April 2 of sweeping tariffs against scores of countries — demonstrators also marched in several European capitals.