Mass Protests Hit Central Coast as Part of National ‘Hands Off!’ Movement

CENTRAL COAST, Calif. – On Saturday, millions of people in every U.S. state and across the globe took to the streets for “Hands Off!” protests, uniting in what organizers called a powerful stand against a “hostile takeover” of American democracy by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

More than 1,400 demonstrations were held nationwide, spanning state capitols, federal buildings, congressional offices, Social Security headquarters, city halls, and public parks. The protests were part of a global pro-democracy movement demanding what they called “an end to this billionaire power grab.”

“Anywhere we can make sure they hear us,” organizers said.

In California, rallies stretched up and down the coast, including a major demonstration in Santa Barbara. Hundreds gathered at De la Guerra Plaza at noon for an event organized by Indivisible Santa Barbara, Women’s March, and other local activist groups. Participants carried signs denouncing the Trump administration and DOGE—the Department of Government Efficiency—led by Musk.

Thousands of demonstrators packed the streets of Santa Barbara, spilling onto the roadway as they marched from De la Guerra Plaza to West Beach. Once there, participants stepped into pre-marked spots on the sand, forming the words “Hands Off!” according to Noozhawk.

In Santa Maria, more than 200 people rallied near Broadway and Main Street to voice frustration over cuts to federal programs and what they described as an erosion of government transparency and public services.

“We're protesting the actions of the Trump administration in the first hundred days that have essentially emaciated our government, reordered the geopolitical landscape, and made America less safe,” said Danny Mogg, one of the organizers.

The demonstrations were overwhelmingly peaceful and lasted a couple of hours.

Protesters also gathered at the Ventura Government Center, joining one of the largest rallies in Ventura County.

In contrast, a small group of Trump supporters assembled in Newbury Park, waving flags from an overpass above the Conejo Grade to show support for the administration’s trade tariffs.

Despite the political divide, Saturday’s coordinated protests signaled growing resistance to recent federal actions and what organizers described as “a consolidation of power by the ultra-wealthy.” The “Hands Off!” campaign emphasized preserving democratic institutions and protecting civil liberties in the face of sweeping changes.