As President Donald Trump completes his first 100 days of his second term, his administration has enacted a series of polarizing policies that have sparked widespread criticism and protests across the United States.
Trump's aggressive trade policies, including steep tariffs against China and Canada, have severely impacted manufacturing states like Michigan and stirred a trade impasse with China. While Trump plans to relax some 25% auto tariffs to boost domestic car production, businesses express uncertainty amid the volatile environment. Economists warn of inflationary pressures and recession risks triggered by inconsistent trade moves. Democrats criticize Trump for freezing or delaying $430 billion in federal funds for critical programs, calling it a dangerous deviation from the law.
Domestically, Trump has enacted over 140 executive orders, implementing controversial measures such as suspending refugee admissions, militarizing the southern border, and targeting pro-Palestinian demonstrators for visa revocation. He has purged tens of thousands of federal workers, ignored court rulings, and pardoned January 6 rioters. His "Department of Government Efficiency," led by Elon Musk, has introduced erratic agency shutdowns and cuts, stirring internal cabinet conflicts. Protests have risen nationwide, lawsuits challenge his moves, and Trump's approval ratings have begun to slip. The aggressive 100-day agenda has fostered chaos and deep divisions, setting the tone for a turbulent presidency.
In response to these policies, the "Hands Off!" protests erupted across the United States on April 5, 2025, marking the largest one-day, nationwide display of public resistance against President Trump's administration. Organized by over 150 grassroots organizations, including the 50501 movement, Indivisible, and the Women's March, the demonstrations voiced opposition to policies such as the militarization of the southern border, cuts to federal programs, and attacks on immigrants and minorities. The protests occurred in over 1,400 locations across all 50 U.S. states, drawing up to an estimated 3-5 million participants nationwide.
The Hands Off protests are part of a broader movement against the Trump administration's policies, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction and a call for accountability and change.
Sources AP News; The Guardian
