Tens of thousands of demonstrators plan to rally across the United States Thursday as part of May Day protests targeting the Trump administration and specific government policies. Organizers say events are scheduled in numerous cities across all 50 states.
The demonstrations coincide with International Workers' Day and follow previous large-scale actions this year. Groups like 50501, which has helped coordinate previous demonstrations, state the rallies aim to push back against policies they view as harmful to working individuals.
Organizers expect more than 70,000 participants nationwide across over 1,100 planned protest events. Cities from Seattle to New York are listed as hosting gatherings.
Protesters state their actions oppose a "billionaire takeover" of the federal government, citing concerns about figures like Elon Musk and their influence. Specific grievances include perceived threats to labor rights, unions, immigrant voices, and public education funding, particularly regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Some events also support the Tesla Takedown movement.
Participants also express concerns about potential changes to social security and other social safety net programs. The movement is described as broad and decentralized, with events planned in suburban and rural communities alongside major cities.
The organization's website states the inspiration for the demonstrations includes the 1971 May Day protests in Washington, D.C., which opposed the war in Vietnam and resulted in a mass arrest.
A virtual rally was scheduled Tuesday evening with representatives from organizations including the Working Families Party and American Federation of Teachers. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) was expected to join a rally in Philadelphia on Thursday.
Separately, a coalition planned to "shut down the streets of Washington, D.C." Wednesday in protest of President Trump marked 100 days since returning to office. Ella Weber, a spokesperson, described the action as a bold escalation marking a new phase of public resistance.
The rallies come as Trump's approval rating has fallen among many demographic groups, according to polls. Some political figures have criticized the protests; Republicans have denounced Gov. JB Pritzker for previously urging Americans to take to the streets.
Regarding the motivations behind the demonstrations, 50501 wrote on its website, "This is a war on working people—and we will not back down. We are reclaiming our power from corporate elites, and we will not be intimidated by Trump, Musk, or their billionaire backers."
