On February 17, 2025, approximately 1,000 residents gathered in front of the Santa Cruz County Courthouse to participate in the “Not My President’s Day” protest, aligning with nationwide demonstrations organized by the 50501 Movement. This grassroots initiative, active since early February, opposes the policies and actions of President Donald Trump and his administration.
Protesters in Santa Cruz voiced their concerns over various issues, notably the influence of billionaire Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Participants carried signs with slogans such as “No person is above the law” and “Love not hate makes America great,” while chanting, “Hey hey! Ho ho! Elon Musk has got to go!” These expressions reflect apprehensions about the perceived erosion of democratic principles and the growing sway of unelected individuals in governmental affairs.
The Santa Cruz demonstration was part of a broader series of protests across the United States on Presidents Day. In cities like Boston, Houston, and San Francisco, citizens gathered to denounce the administration’s actions, including efforts to reduce the federal workforce and the involvement of private entities in public governance.
In San Francisco, hundreds marched from City Hall to a Tesla dealership on Van Ness Avenue, highlighting concerns over Musk’s role in government operations. Protesters carried signs condemning recent federal actions and the perceived overreach of DOGE in accessing taxpayer data.
The 50501 Movement, which stands for “50 protests, 50 states, one day,” has been instrumental in organizing these events. Originating from online communities, the movement has rapidly mobilized citizens nationwide to advocate for the upholding of constitutional values and to challenge what they perceive as authoritarian tendencies in the current administration.
As the nation continues to grapple with these contentious issues, the “Not My President’s Day” protests exemplify the active engagement of citizens in democratic processes, emphasizing the importance of public discourse and peaceful demonstration in shaping the country’s political landscape.