Palm Springs, CA

On a Saturday marked by nationwide protests, thousands of people gathered in cities across the Coachella Valley, including Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage, to voice their opposition to President Donald Trump’s second term in office. The protests, part of a broader series of “Hands Off!” demonstrations, underscored growing frustration with the direction of the U.S. under Trump’s leadership. Many protesters focused on the influence of billionaire Elon Musk on the administration, and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that has dismantled agencies and slashed thousands of government jobs.

Organized by over 150 groups representing a wide spectrum of causes—from civil rights organizations and labor unions to LGBTQ+ advocates, veterans, and elections activists—these rallies took place at more than 1,200 locations across all 50 states. The “Hands Off!” protests were driven by a desire to push back against policies that many Americans believe threaten democracy, civil rights, and due process.

In the Coachella Valley, crowds gathered and expanded in front of Palm Springs City Hall and Rancho Mirage City Hall, to express their discontent. Protesters criticized not only President Trump’s policies but also the growing role of Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, in shaping the administration’s agenda. Musk, who has close ties to Trump, was a focal point for many protesters who felt his influence was detrimental to the nation’s future.

Despite the intensity of the messages, the rallies across the nation appeared to be peaceful, with no immediate reports of arrests. The demonstrations marked a significant moment for the opposition movement, which had struggled to maintain momentum following the shock of Trump’s earlier actions in office. With the nation divided and tensions high, the “Hands Off!” protests served as a clear message from those who are determined to challenge the direction the country is heading under the current administration.

As these protests continue to grow, they represent a broader push to reassert power in American politics—one where grassroots activism and collective action are seen as vital tools for promoting change. While the future of the movement remains uncertain, Saturday’s protests marked a key moment in the ongoing battle for political influence in the United States.