Protests erupt across U.S. against Trump, Musk, and USAID shutdown

Nationwide protests erupted on Wednesday in response to the Trump administration’s abrupt move to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), a leading humanitarian agency that was the world’s largest bilateral donor just weeks ago.

Hundreds gathered outside the Capitol in Washington, D.C., joining demonstrators from all 50 states as part of an online movement called 50501—symbolizing 50 protests in 50 states on one day. Protesters voiced opposition to President Donald Trump’s decision to pull USAID staff from the field and shut down operations, a move that has sparked concerns over the U.S.’s global humanitarian commitments.

The administration’s decision came just two and a half weeks after billionaire Elon Musk took charge of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Under Musk’s leadership, USAID has been systematically dismantled, halting programs that provided education, epidemic prevention, and economic development support worldwide.

“Elon Musk has got to go!” chanted demonstrators, including Massachusetts Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, who marched alongside them. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen condemned the situation, calling it “the most corrupt bargain in American history,” highlighting Musk’s close ties to Trump and his growing influence over federal agencies.

Protesters also raised alarms about Musk’s unchecked power in government operations. “No single individual should have this much control,” said Ravenna, a protester speaking to the Associated Press. “Trump has given Musk unlimited access to federal resources without congressional oversight. This is a hostile takeover of our government.”

Amy, a former USAID employee, shared her story of being abruptly fired just days after Trump’s inauguration. “No severance, no explanation—just gone. I was on maternity leave and set to return that Monday. My husband was also recently laid off. Our entire future is uncertain now.”

Trump’s Aggressive Executive Orders

Since taking office, President Trump has rapidly pushed to dissolve USAID, despite experts asserting that such an action requires congressional approval. His administration has also attempted to freeze trillions in legislatively mandated spending, raising constitutional concerns over executive overreach.

Critics argue that Trump’s actions undermine the foundational principle of separation of powers. He has removed government watchdogs, fired FBI leaders, and dismissed federal prosecutors investigating his previous administration. Additionally, opponents allege that Trump has allowed Musk—one of the world’s richest men and a major government contractor—access to U.S. Treasury payment systems, which handle trillions of dollars and store vast amounts of sensitive personal data.

“Congress is supposed to be a co-equal branch of government,” said political analyst Andrew Koneschusky. “But if lawmakers, particularly Republicans, fail to check Trump’s power, the balance of government may shift permanently.”

With Trump’s sweeping actions and Musk’s deepening role in federal affairs, the nation faces an unprecedented political and constitutional crisis. Whether Congress and the courts will step in to challenge these moves remains to be seen.