Anti-Trump protesters gather at Virginia General Assembly
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Hundreds gathered outside the General Assembly Feb. 5 to protest the Trump Administration’s early actions, including the slew of executive orders presented by the president and Project 2025.
The demonstration was one of many nationwide as part of the 50 Protests, 50 States, One Day initiative known as 50501. The movement has no central leadership or organization behind it. Instead, citizens organized the series of protests online using the hashtags #50501 and #buildtheresistance. Protesters voiced their frustration through chants, signs and speeches.
Throughout the rally, attendees specifically spoke out against Department of Government Efficiency head Elon Musk’s role in President Donald Trump’s campaign, the changes being made to immigration laws, restrictions on transgender youth’s rights and more.
Participants chanted phrases such as “Congress, wake up,” “We’re not going back” and “We are the people.” Many speakers emerged spontaneously during the event to condemn Trump, emphasizing the importance of voting and urging the crowd to stay informed.
The nationwide protests come amid citizens’ escalating concerns over the executive orders Trump began signing on Jan. 20, which included ending federal diversity, equity and inclusion programs, targeting transgender rights, and affecting immigration policy.
Several bills responding to the executive orders passed through the Virginia Senate and House Wednesday, including SB1098. The bill protects healthcare providers offering reproductive and gender-affirming care services from out-of-state. It prohibits the extradition of any person charged with a crime that is legal within Virginia and passed mostly along party lines, 21-19.
There were also laws passed related to voter access. HB2276 puts in place a framework for maintaining accurate voter lists, verifying voter records, and sharing voter information.
“Thousands upon thousands of federal workers across Virginia who’s jobs and livelihoods are homes are at risk because of this president’s illegal acts,” Del. Alfonso Lopez, D-Arlington, told the protesters.
