Protests in Los Angeles
A large protest, known as Not My President’s Day, took place in Los Angeles on Monday. Organized by the 50501 Movement, the demonstrations aimed to challenge what organizers call “anti-democratic and unlawful actions” by the Trump administration.
Nationwide Demonstrations
Similar protests were planned in all 50 states, with major events happening in Washington, D.C., and other large cities.
The 50501 Movement: A Nationwide Resistance
The 50501 Movement stands for 50 protests, 50 states, one movement. It started as a discussion on Reddit in January 2025 and quickly gained support on social media. The group is united by concerns over policies they believe threaten democracy and violate constitutional principles.
The movement’s core values include defending equality, rejecting authoritarianism, and opposing unchecked executive power. Their mission statement asserts:
“We are more than just numbers. We refuse to accept fascism. We reject oligarchy. We stand for democracy.”
Protest Names and Themes
In different cities, the demonstrations have taken on unique names. In Washington, D.C., for example, the protest was labeled No Kings Day. Protesters there voiced opposition to the administration’s efforts to reduce the federal workforce. Reports indicate that agencies like USAID, NIH, and the VA have already experienced layoffs.
Why Are People Protesting?
A key factor behind these protests is the growing influence of Elon Musk in the Trump administration. As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has overseen widespread federal budget cuts, affecting agencies responsible for health, education, and social services. Many protesters fear these cuts could weaken essential public programs.
Additionally, Musk’s unelected position and considerable authority over government affairs have raised concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of one individual.
Differing Views on DOGE and Musk’s Role
While protesters argue that Musk’s role undermines democracy, his supporters see it differently.
The Supporters’ View
- Advocates for President Trump and Musk believe DOGE is crucial for making government operations more efficient.
- They argue that reducing bureaucracy will cut unnecessary spending and improve federal agencies.
- Musk’s business experience, particularly in technology and innovation, is seen as an asset that could modernize government infrastructure.
- They insist that his leadership aligns with Trump’s campaign promise to reform Washington and drive economic growth.
Supporters also claim that eliminating excessive regulations will make the government more effective, prioritizing national interests without compromising democracy.
Scope of the Protests
Monday’s Not My President’s Day protests were organized in all 50 states, with thousands expected to gather at state capitals and major cities. In Washington, D.C., demonstrators planned to rally near the Capitol and White House, advocating for constitutional rights and voicing concerns about executive power.
Online, the movement has gained momentum. The hashtag #50501 has received over 2 billion views across social media platforms, reflecting widespread concern about the administration’s policies.
Los Angeles Protests: A Local Perspective
In Los Angeles, demonstrators gathered outside City Hall to participate in the nationwide movement. Protesters in LA echoed the broader message of the 50501 Movement, calling for the preservation of democratic values and government accountability.
These demonstrations highlight a growing wave of civic engagement. Just as in previous mass protests, Americans are once again coming together to express their views and demand change.
