Thousands Rally Across North Carolina to Protest Federal Cuts, Trump Agenda

As former President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans continue to push policies that critics say threaten essential public services, North Carolinians took to the streets to push back.

“Everyday Raleigh residents are sending a clear message: hands off our healthcare, Social Security, civil rights, freedom, and education,” said 50501NC in a statement on the Raleigh protest.

The state Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) anticipates losing over 80 jobs and $100 million in federal funding due to proposed cuts.

Multiple groups joined the Raleigh demonstration, including Bull City Indivisible, the North Carolina Poor People’s Campaign, Iron Front NC, Common Cause NC, the Union of Southern Service Workers, Wake Women Have Mercy, and others.

CBS 17 reported that thousands filled downtown Raleigh’s Jones Street, carrying signs critical of Trump, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and Elon Musk. Capitol Police Chief Terry Green estimated the crowd between 4,000 and 6,000, though organizers said turnout exceeded 10,000.

“The government’s not here for us—it’s up to us to advocate for ourselves,” said attendee Ailisha Borror. The event, dubbed “Hands Off,” drew people from all walks of life. “Young people need to be out here because this is their future,” added Richard Dickie.

Solidarity extended beyond Raleigh. Carol Woods Retirement Community in Chapel Hill, made up largely of residents in their 80s and 90s, held their own protest, chanting “hands off” along Weaver Dairy Road.

In Charlotte, a large protest on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. shut down Randolph Road at Wendover Road. Demonstrators also marched to the Mint Museum, while a separate rally was held in Waxhaw, about 20 miles south of the city, according to WBTV.

When asked about the protests, the White House told the Associated Press: “President Trump’s position is clear—he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, Democrats want to extend those benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt the programs and hurt American seniors.”

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