On Presidents’ Day 2025, an unusual yet significant protest swept across the United States, as demonstrators rallied under the banner of “No Kings Day,” voicing their discontent with two of the most prominent and controversial figures in American politics and business: former President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk. These protests, which unfolded in multiple cities, were driven by left-wing supporters who criticized the two men for their perceived authoritarian tendencies and their growing influence over the country's political and economic spheres. The protests were a response to Trump’s ongoing political influence and Musk’s increasing prominence as a political ally.

The timing of the protests on Presidents’ Day was deliberate, a symbolic gesture highlighting the perceived dangers of Trump and Musk’s combined power. Protesters targeted both men for their controversial policies, remarks, and actions that have increasingly positioned them as central figures in the country’s power dynamics. As the demonstrations spread across various cities—from New York City to Long Beach—criticism of the two men grew louder, underscoring a rising dissatisfaction with their grip on American society.

Trump and Musk: Allies in the Making

As expected, the protests focused on the duo's rising political and economic influence, particularly their plans for cuts and reforms that have drawn backlash from left-wing supporters. These proposals, including economic policies that critics argue disproportionately benefit the wealthy, have fueled the perception of Trump and Musk as figures of unchecked power, attempting to reshape the country to align with their personal interests. While Trump’s influence is rooted in his previous presidency and ongoing political aspirations, Musk’s growing presence as a tech mogul and political influencer has been marked by his alliances with conservative causes and his outspoken criticisms of government regulations and corporate taxation.

The protests that erupted in major cities, including New York, Long Beach, and others, have created a strong, vocal opposition to their growing collaboration. Some protesters have described Trump and Musk as two sides of the same coin, accusing them of trying to control the nation’s future for their own benefit. In addition, many left-wing activists see them as figures who are not accountable to the people, perpetuating a system of top-down power and wealth consolidation.

On the other hand, Trump and Musk’s alliance is not without its advantages. Together, they have managed to consolidate a significant portion of political and economic power. Trump’s populist rhetoric and proven ability to galvanize large swaths of the American electorate have made him a dominant figure in the political arena. Musk’s influence in the tech and business sectors, along with his ability to disrupt industries like automotive, space exploration, and energy, has positioned him as an important player in shaping the country’s future. Their relationship—whether based on mutual respect, shared interests, or calculated pragmatism—has only strengthened their hold on power, despite the mounting protests against them.

Widespread Backlash Across the U.S.

Although the protests received significant attention in New York City, they were not isolated to just one metropolitan area. Hundreds of people gathered in Long Beach, California, to voice their concerns about the influence of Trump and Musk. The demonstration, like those in other parts of the country, served as a direct challenge to the political and corporate establishment that Trump and Musk represent.

The rally in Long Beach was marked by passionate speeches and chants denouncing the two figures. Participants decried the concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few individuals, with some specifically criticizing Musk’s role in shaping political discourse through his platforms and business ventures. The rally was part of a broader movement that saw similar demonstrations in cities such as San Francisco, Washington D.C., and Boston. These rallies were not just about Trump and Musk themselves, but about the broader political and economic systems they represent.

Many protesters argue that the increasing wealth inequality in the country has been exacerbated by policies promoted by figures like Trump and Musk. In addition, the growing influence of Musk, who controls companies such as Tesla and SpaceX, has raised concerns about the power of billionaires in influencing political decisions and public policy. As one protester in Long Beach put it, “We’re here to stand up against the unchecked power of people like Trump and Musk, who are doing more harm than good for the average American.”

Trump-Musk Allyship: A Stronger Power Dynamic

As the protests unfold, one thing has become increasingly clear: the alliance between Trump and Musk is creating a stronger power dynamic in the U.S. political landscape. Musk’s ability to influence public opinion and political discourse—whether through his social media platforms or his business ventures—has made him an important ally for Trump. The two men share a disdain for the political establishment and have aligned themselves on issues such as deregulation, tax cuts, and reducing government interference in business operations.

The rise of their combined influence presents a challenge for traditional political structures, particularly the left-wing factions that view Trump and Musk as antithetical to their values. Musk’s role as a tech mogul and innovator gives him significant sway, not only in the business world but also in shaping the narrative around issues like climate change, automation, and space exploration. Trump, for his part, continues to enjoy a loyal base of supporters, many of whom see him as a champion of populist ideals and a defender of American values.

As the protests intensify, it becomes evident that the combined force of Trump and Musk is not something that can be easily dismissed. Together, they represent a formidable political and economic power, and their alliance could reshape the future of American governance and business.

The Strategic Mistake of Attacking Both Figures

While the protests against Trump and Musk are understandable from a left-wing perspective, attacking both of them simultaneously may not be the wisest strategy. In fact, it could play into their hands, strengthening their bond and making them even more powerful together. By framing the two figures as a unified force, opponents are inadvertently reinforcing their alliance and helping to solidify their influence.

Trump and Musk, despite their differences in background and approach, share a mutual interest in undermining the traditional political establishment and challenging the status quo. As a result, they are likely to become more entrenched in their positions as a result of the protests. Their supporters, many of whom view the opposition as elitist or out of touch with the average American, may become even more loyal and energized in response to the attacks on their leaders.

Instead of focusing on attacking both figures simultaneously, it might be more effective for protesters to target specific policies or actions that they find objectionable. By addressing the specific issues at hand—whether it’s Musk’s influence in tech or Trump’s policies on taxes and deregulation—opponents can more effectively challenge the actions of both men without strengthening their political and economic partnership.

Conclusion

The “No Kings Day” protests, which brought together thousands of demonstrators across the United States, reflect the growing backlash against the rising influence of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. While their alliance is a source of concern for many, it has also proven to be a powerful force that cannot be easily dismissed. As Trump and Musk continue to consolidate their power, it remains to be seen how the opposition will respond to their combined influence. However, one thing is clear: their partnership is a force to be reckoned with, and any attempt to weaken it may inadvertently make them stronger. Instead of waging a war on both men, it may be more effective to challenge the policies that have made them so influential in the first place.