Bend, OR – Oregon saw a wave of protests on Saturday as thousands gathered in cities large and small to take part in the nationwide “Hands Off” demonstrations. The protests, which were organized in over 800 locations across the country, were a direct response to policies linked to former President Donald Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. With more than 40 events held throughout Oregon, the state played a significant role in the nationwide movement.
Major cities like Portland, Beaverton, and Medford saw large crowds of demonstrators, while smaller towns, typically considered conservative strongholds, also hosted their own rallies. The protests were marked by chants, signs, and speeches, with organizers emphasizing a collective desire to protect civil liberties and challenge what they perceive as harmful policies and corporate influence.
In Portland, one of the largest protests, attendees gathered at Pioneer Courthouse Square, holding signs that read, “Hands Off Our Rights” and “End Corporate Control.” Protesters voiced concerns about what they viewed as Musk’s growing influence over the public sphere through his ownership of companies like Twitter and his influence on political discourse. Similarly, many protesters pointed to the lingering impact of Trump-era policies, particularly those they felt undermined social justice and environmental protections.
While the protests in Oregon were part of a broader, nationwide effort, the turnout in the state was notable for its diversity. Crowds ranged from young activists to older citizens, reflecting the broad appeal of the issues being raised. Even in more conservative-leaning towns, where such demonstrations are less common, protesters showed up in numbers that organizers described as surprising.
The “Hands Off” movement, which has gained momentum in recent months, seeks to challenge the concentration of political and economic power in the hands of a few individuals, like Musk, who hold significant sway over public platforms and industries. In addition to protesting Trump’s legacy, the movement has increasingly spotlighted Musk’s role in shaping modern discourse, particularly following his controversial acquisition of Twitter.
Despite the widespread nature of the protests, there were no reports of major clashes or violence, with most demonstrations remaining peaceful. Local law enforcement agencies were present in many cities, but their role was largely focused on ensuring safety and traffic management rather than intervening in the protests.
As the “Hands Off” movement continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen whether this Saturday’s protests will spark further actions or inspire long-term political change. For now, the protests have succeeded in amplifying voices of dissent, sparking conversation across Oregon and the country about the influence of powerful figures like Trump and Musk on both politics and public life.
