Thousands of Virginians took to the streets today for the ‘Hands Off!’ rally in Richmond, demonstrating against the sweeping agenda of President Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Organized by a coalition of civil rights organizations, labor unions, veterans, LGBTQ groups, and election advocates, the rally focused on numerous areas threatened by DOGE including, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, federal workers, immigrant rights, and publicly funded scientific research.
Protestors gathered at Capitol Square before marching together to Monroe Park, joining a nationwide chorus of dissent aimed at the sudden erosion of democracy, sweeping dismantling of government agencies, and the unprecedented role of a non-elected billionaire in shaping public policy.
According to CNN, over 1,400 protests and rallies were held in all 50 states with the Associated Press reporting that this marks the single largest day of coordinated demonstrations against the president since he took office. The Guardian also reported ‘Hands Off!’ rallies taking place in the UK, Germany, and Portugal.
In Richmond, the event brought together a diverse cross-section of families, concerned citizens, community leaders, students, and speakers. With chants of “Where’s Congress? Do your job.” and “Trump for prison,” the rally goers voiced their deep frustration about this current moment in American history.
Mike D’Angelo, who moved to Richmond from Miami several years ago, told RVA Mag, “I’m sick and tired of Donald Trump. Everyone has a right to live how they choose.” Maggie Snoddy, Vice Chair of the Democratic Party in Buckingham County, referenced a cautionary quote from John Adams: “There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.” However, she quickly emphasized her determination to resist that fate by firmly adding, “Not on my watch.”
These protests come on the heels of the president’s “Liberation Day” tariff roll-out, which has started a global trade war and caused the stock market to crater by 2,200 points on Friday. According to the White House, the president is currently golfing. Nevertheless, a statement released by the White House in response to the protests, said: “President Trump’s position is clear: he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
More photos from Richmond’s ‘Hands Off’ rally can be found in the gallery below.
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All photos by Landon Shroder @radio_tokyo
