Hundreds of protesters gathered in downtown Long Beach on Presidents Day to voice their opposition to the Trump administration and criticize Elon Musk’s involvement in government. The rally, part of the nationwide "Not My President" movement, took place outside City Hall, where demonstrators waved American and Mexican flags alongside handmade signs bearing messages such as “Impeach Trump,” “Felon + Elon = Treason,” and “I’ve seen smarter cabinets at Ikea.”
Participants expressed their discontent with President Trump’s executive orders, particularly those affecting climate change policies, immigration reform, and reproductive rights. Amanda Salemi, a 40-year-old protester, highlighted her concerns, stating, “I strongly stand against the majority of what the current administration stands for.” Salemi carried a sign reading “People Over Profit” and tucked a large rainbow flag into her pocket, emphasizing her commitment to social justice.
The rally featured speeches from activists, including Anthony Bryson of SoCal Uprising, who led chants against both Trump and Musk. Protesters shouted, “Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go. Hey hey, ho ho, Elon Musk has got to go,” as passing motorists honked in support. The demonstration took a lively turn as participants marched along Ocean Boulevard, encountering vocal Trump supporters along the nearly two-mile route.
Among the attendees were Denise Trutanich and Esther Duran, both 73, who reminisced about their experiences protesting during the Vietnam War. Duran articulated her feelings of despair, saying, “I feel like we’re going backwards.” The duo, armed with lawn chairs and a sense of urgency, joined the protest after receiving alerts about the event.
The rally was one of many held across the country, with similar gatherings taking place in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Camarillo. Many of these events were organized by the 50501 Movement, a grassroots initiative aimed at upholding the Constitution and curbing executive overreach.
As the protest unfolded, some participants voiced their disdain for Musk’s role as a “special government employee” in the Department of Government Efficiency, which has been criticized for aggressive budget cuts and job reductions within federal agencies. Duran held a sign reading “Elon Must Go,” encapsulating the sentiments of many who feel Musk’s influence in government is unwarranted.
The Long Beach event underscored a growing wave of dissent against the current administration, reflecting widespread concerns about policies perceived as regressive. With activists rallying together, the message was clear: many Americans are prepared to stand up for their beliefs and advocate for change in the face of what they view as an administration that does not represent their interests.