El Sobrante joins nationwide ‘Hands Off!’ protests targeting Trump-Musk agenda
El Sobrante joined more than 1,300 cities in a coordinated nationwide protest on Saturday demanding an end to overreach by Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The event, part of the Hands Off! Day of Action saw millions gather across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and internationally, which organizers called the largest day of collective action since Trump’s inauguration.
Organizers of the pro-democracy movement said Saturday’s protests marked the largest day of collective action since Trump’s inauguration, with everyday people turning out in record numbers to defend their healthcare, wages, education, civil rights, and democracy.
“What we witnessed today was nothing short of extraordinary,” said Rahna Epting, Executive Director, MoveOn. “Across the country and around the world, people came together to say: we will not be silent while our rights, our futures, and our democracy are under attack. This peaceful movement is powered by everyday people—nurses, teachers, students, parents—who are rising up to protect what matters most. We are united, we are relentless, and we are just getting started.”
Locally, protestors gathered on San Pablo Dam Road, waving signs, chanting, and playing music while a steady stream of cars flew by, mostly honking in support.
One of the local organizers, longtime activist Judy Weatherly, spoke about the urgency of the moment.
“I’ve been an activist for my whole life since my nephew was killed in Vietnam when I was 17, and we’ve been organizing against Trump since the first administration,” Weatherly said.
“We thought there’d be 20-25 people. Look at this,” she added, gesturing to the large crowd on both sides of the road. “It’s wonderful to be here with all these people... to see so many people ready to stand up.”
The El Sobrante event was one of many that called attention to a growing movement opposing what organizers describe as a corporate-authoritarian alliance between Trump and Musk. From cuts to essential services to rising prices and rollbacks on civil rights, participants voiced outrage at policies they say are designed to concentrate power and wealth while leaving working people behind.
“They bought up all those houses. Now they’re just gonna buy up all the stocks. They’ll own everything,” Weatherly said.
The local turnout reflected broader energy nationwide, with significant crowds reported in cities as diverse as Columbus, Boston, Asheville, Chicago, and London.
For more information or a list of events and partners, visit handsoff2025.com.
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