More than 10,000 protesters took to the streets of New York City on Presidents' Day, voicing their opposition to the Trump administration and the controversial actions of Elon Musk's DOGE. The demonstration commenced at Union Square, with participants marching to Washington Square Park, assembling under the historic memorial arch dedicated to George Washington. The protestors expressed grave concerns over DOGE's access to sensitive data of millions of Americans and the group's efforts in dismantling federal agencies.
The rally featured a sea of signs, with messages such as "Stop the coup" and "Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go." Demonstrators were adamant about their disapproval of Musk's influence and actions. Among them was Victoria, a 37-year-old teacher holding a sign that read "Stop the coup," who voiced her apprehension about Musk's increasing power. Corwin, a 39-year-old small business owner, criticized Musk’s actions as "extremely dangerous" and expressed his concerns over Musk's intentions to "eliminate the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau."
The New York Police Department estimated the number of attendees to be well over 10,000, highlighting the significant turnout. This protest was part of a larger nationwide movement opposing both the Trump administration and DOGE's operations. Similar demonstrations unfolded in major cities including Washington D.C., underscoring widespread unrest triggered by Musk's leadership of DOGE.
Protesters decried Musk's dismantling of federal agencies and his unprecedented access to sensitive data. Many expressed frustration over Musk's unelected status yet significant influence on governmental affairs. Tom, a 55-year-old retired teacher, carried a sign stating "No one voted for Musk," expressing his concerns regarding the impact of DOGE's policy cuts on citizens across the nation.
The protests extended beyond New York City, with smaller demonstrations occurring at Tesla dealerships nationwide. The actions served as a direct response to Musk’s support for the Trump administration and far-right political affiliations, notably with Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Protesters also targeted Musk's plans to expand Tesla’s financial services—plans that involve regulation by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which he reportedly seeks to dismantle.
"Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go." – Protesters
The outcry against what many perceive as a corporate takeover of government functions reverberated across the country. Demonstrators called out what they viewed as Musk’s conflict of interest, particularly his antiregulatory stance which critics argue serves his business interests.
"In the U.S., we appeal rulings we disagree with – we don’t ignore court orders or threaten judges with impeachment just because we don’t like the decision. This is a coup, plain and simple." – Kris Mayes, Arizona’s attorney general
Corwin highlighted the perceived self-serving nature of Musk’s policies.
"he’s so conflicted and it’s so clear that his antiregulatory attitudes benefit him personally and financially." – Corwin
As tensions rise, the protests underscore a broader societal debate over the balance of power between corporations and government accountability. Participants in these demonstrations seek to draw attention to what they perceive as an erosion of democratic principles in favor of corporate interests.
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