TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Demonstrators took to the streets to protest Donald Trump and Elon Musk on Saturday, but it wasn’t the only event that took place in the Tampa Bay area.

From Tampa to Lakeland, the “Hands Off” rallies were organized to protest federal workforce and spending cuts that organizers say are impacting seniors and veterans.

“I am not alone in knowing that there are plenty of other people who feel the same way, and it’s time to speak up,” said protester Ross Gottstein.

Thousands blame Elon Musk and President Donald Trump.

“I had a wife who was a veteran. I have two daughters-in-law who are veterans, one of whom is still active in the military. I just can’t believe we’re doing this to the people who have served us, the people who have protected us.”

Demonstrators said they’re standing up for democracy and sending a message to leaders in Washington to stop “DOGE.”

“So I think that those of us who are sitting at home talking to each other about how terrible things are need to come out and say something, because if not, you know, our elected officials aren’t really doing it for us right now,” one demonstrator said.

Some protesters fear that free speech has been threatened under the Trump administration. They don’t agree with his administration’s policies to manage illegal immigration.

Some even said there’s unfair treatment because of their religion.

“I represent Muslim Americans in our agency, and we have had to recommend to permanent residents and green card holders not to travel at all because they’re being stopped by border protection. They’re being stopped by TSA. They’re being questioned, detained for hours on end when they have every right to be in this country,” demonstrator Mary Marks said.

When asked about the protests, in an email to NBC News, the White House said President Trump plans to protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for those who are eligible.