Nationwide Protests Challenge Trump’s Policies Ahead of Congress Address

ATLANTA (AP) — As President Donald Trump prepared to deliver a highly anticipated address to Congress on March 4, 2025, protest groups gathered in public spaces across the United States. The demonstrations, prompted by the grassroots 50501 Movement, sought to express widespread dissent against Trump’s presidency, which many attendees criticized as dangerous and un-American.

The protests showcased a diverse array of concerns, highlighting opposition to Trump’s policies on tariffs, international relations, and public health. Participants in cities like Atlanta and Austin held signs that read messages ranging from calls for social justice to appeals for environmental protections and educational funding.

Sara Grummer-Strawn, a protester in Atlanta, commented, “There are so many things to fight against, but I hope by being here we are starting some conversations.” Holding a sign that outlined various issues of concern, Grummer-Strawn aimed to emphasize the interconnectedness of Trump’s policies. “I want to remind people how these policies affect us and others globally,” she added.

In Austin, hundreds of protesters gathered with sunflowers—symbolizing support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. One protester, Carol Goodwin, remarked, “I think protests can be impactful. These smaller gatherings are important for expressing frustrations and can help grow the movement over time.”

As the day progressed, events were organized in all 50 states, with demonstrations culminating in Hawaii late Tuesday evening. Participants expressed feelings of urgency around issues such as health care cuts and threats to educational aids like Pell Grants, which many believe threaten lower-income students’ access to education.

In the heart of the protests was the palpable tension over Trump’s unwavering support base and the challenges faced by Democrats and progressive movements in mobilizing against his agenda. Boston-based protester Michael Gray pointed to a recent controversial exchange between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stating, “Seeing an American president act like that on the world stage is simply unacceptable.”

Back in Atlanta, 33-year-old Grayson Taylor expressed disdain for what he termed Trump’s “billionaire coup,” claiming the government was increasingly serving the ultra-rich at the expense of ordinary citizens. Meanwhile, 58-year-old Sherri Frias voiced her concerns about Trump’s tax cuts, especially in light of proposed cuts to Medicaid and educational programs.

“As someone who worked in the financial aid office, I’ve seen firsthand how critical federal aid is for students,” Bedford expressed, remarking on the administration’s potential rollbacks. “There is a war on education happening, and we need to be vocal about the implications of these policies.”

The protests were that rare moment where anger and resolve converged among those who felt marginalized under Trump’s leadership. Demonstrators were keen to highlight how each of Trump’s executive decisions resonated on a personal level, with many calling for more aggressive action from Democratic lawmakers.

“If we want change, our representatives need to act like they mean it and be persistent in their opposition against these harmful policies,” said Bedford. Observers noted that several attendees expressed frustration with the Democratic Party’s internal divisions, which they believe hinder effective opposition.

The gravity of the day was underscored by the protests’ stark juxtaposition against Trump’s ambitious plans and the unpredictability of his policies. As the demonstrations played out, participants noted the broader struggle against what they characterize as a shift towards authoritarianism under Trump.

In light of the protests, many attendees left sites feeling renewed and motivated for continued advocacy, eager to amplify their voices leading into the next election cycle.