PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Millions rallied across the country Saturday in protest of actions taken by the Trump administration on a variety of issues, from government downsizing to deportations. Thousands of protesters rallied in Providence alone. “We are here to save democracy in a way, to t ry and preserve what America is supposed to be about,” Michael O’Rourke of East Greenwich said. There were more than 1,200 “Hands Off” protests being held across the nation. “All our lives are affected,” Kristen Linder of Barrington said. “We’re retirement age, we could lose Social Security, which could severely impact our lives.” Activists called out President Trump and Elon Musk for making cuts to federal funds and programs. “Nobody bargained for this,” Linder said. “We were told it would happen, but to see it happen and to feel like we’re back in 1939 is a living nightmare every day.” Musk reposted a message on social media that suggested the protests were being funded by “billionaire Democrats,” and those Democrats should be held accountable for any violence or vandalism that could take place. They will be https://t.co/RboNItSxCe — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 5, 2025 There were no reports of any violence in Providence, just anger about things like the administration’s deportation efforts. “We’re the big melting pot of America and we’ve got to make sure that everyone from everywhere has a right to go join the land of opportunity,” Josh Ballesteros said. Many protestors said the nationwide push was about upholding backbone of the country. “The Constitution, I feel like, has been violated repeatedly,” Lenny Ballesteros said. “The Fourteenth Amendment, Section Three was violated when he pardoned the insurrectionists. When you’re giving aid or comfort to an insurrectionist, you shouldn’t be fit to hold office.” A massive crowd formed in Kennedy Plaza at the end of the march. “It speaks that democracy is not dead, it’s a long way from dead and it’s gonna take a lot to kill it, I promise you that,” O’Rourke said. Categories: News, Providence, Rhode Island ...read more read less