Numerous protesters converged in downtown Long Beach for a “Not My President” rally on Presidents Day to voice their disapproval of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s involvement.
In front of City Hall, participants brandished American and Mexican flags as well as handmade signs that read “Impeach Trump,” “Felon + Elon = Treason,” and “I’ve seen smarter cabinets at Ikea.”
Protesters expressed disappointment over the rapid succession of executive orders issued by President Trump since assuming office last month, especially those that seek to revamp the nation’s climate policies, immigration system, and reproductive rights.
“I fundamentally oppose a lot of what the current administration represents,” stated Amanda Salemi, 40, who held a sign proclaiming “People Over Profit” and had a large rainbow flag tucked into her pants pocket.
Alexis Linnea, right, confronts a counter-protester during the rally.
(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)
“I believe in democracy, not fascism, not a ruler or king,” the Long Beach business operations manager asserted. “Our country is at stake, and I’m seeking any opportunity to contribute.”
Denise Trutanich and Esther Duran, both 73 and long-time friends, came equipped with lawn chairs after receiving alerts via text about the gathering.
“It’s been ages since we’ve protested — it feels like the Vietnam War,” said Trutanich. “I’m deeply disheartened by the entire situation. It feels like we’re moving backward.”
Protesters demonstrated against both President Trump and Elon Musk.
(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)
In the first two hours, activists delivered brief speeches as passing drivers honked in support. Anthony Bryson from SoCal Uprising, who helped organize the protest, led the crowd in chants of, “Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go. Hey hey, ho ho, Elon Musk has got to go.”
In the afternoon, demonstrators began to march along Ocean Boulevard and encountered some tense exchanges with vocal Trump supporters on their nearly two-mile route. Two women on a balcony hung an American flag along with a red banner that read “Trump 2024. Take America back.”
Reflecting sentiments shared by many participants, Duran voiced disdain for Musk’s high-profile position as a “special government employee” in the Department of Government Efficiency, an office criticized for aggressively cutting federal spending and jobs.
“What qualifies Elon Musk for such a role?” Duran asked, holding a sign that said “Elon Must Go.”
The Long Beach rally was one of many similar protests taking place nationwide on that day. In California, gatherings also occurred in downtown Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Camarillo.
Numerous events were organized by the 50501 Movement, a coalition of grassroots activists dedicated to “upholding the Constitution and ending executive overreach.”
Protesters hold signs while walking along Ocean Boulevard for the “Not My President” rally.
(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)
