JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Thousands of people around the country participated in the “Hands Off!” nationwide protests that took place in opposition to the Trump administration and billionaire Elon Musk.

Jacksonville was one of the several cities with a rally, which was outside the Duval County Courthouse on Saturday. 

According to a statement from national organizers, “Hands Off” is a “national day of action” that will bring members of Congress, community leaders and “everyday people” together to “call on Trump and Elon Musk to take their hands off the programs that the middle class and working families rely on.”

Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has fired thousands of government workers since President Donald Trump took office in January. 

According to the White House, DOGE was established to modernize Federal technology and software while maximizing governmental efficiency and productivity.

Protesters in Jacksonville told First Coast News they’re fearful of the cuts and are demanding their voices be heard. 

That includes Chasity Bell and Rebeka Bell, who say they came out to stand for basic human rights. 

“We are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, and we have a young son,” Rebeka said. “We are scared about what’s happening in our government right now, and we want to get our voices heard.”

Protesters say the purpose of today’s rally is to send a message to President Trump and Elon Musk about their actions to reform the U.S. government.

“The America that we love, this isn’t her, and to let those higher-ups know that we as citizens aren’t happy about what’s happening,” Chasity said. 

First Coast News reached out to the White House for comment regarding the demonstration that took place today, but we’re still waiting to hear back.