• 2025-04-08 15:06:33
• Gun Violence

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Soggy weather didn't deter crowds of protesters from gathering in Essex County last weekend to voice their frustrations with President Donald Trump, Elon Musk and the ongoing federal budget cuts.

Held as part of a

Here's why protesters hit the streets, organizers said:

"This is a nationwide mobilization to stop the most brazen power grab in modern history. Trump, Musk, and their billionaire cronies are orchestrating an all-out assault on our government, our economy, and our basic rights—enabled by Congress every step of the way. They want to strip America for parts—shuttering Social Security offices, firing essential workers, eliminating consumer protections, and gutting Medicaid—all to bankroll their billionaire tax scam. They're handing over our tax dollars, our public services, and our democracy to the ultra-rich. If we don't fight now, there won't be anything left to save."

Organizers urged demonstrators to commit to "non-violent action" and de-escalate any potential confrontations with counter-protesters.

The national day of protest was supported by a coalition of social justice groups (

Several protests took place in Essex County.

A large crowd showed up at a rally in Montclair, with some Read More: What To Know About Cory Booker's Record-Setting Senate Speech

"It's time to turn our anger into action, our worry into work," Booker urged protesters on Saturday. "It's time to turn our fear into fight!"

Article continues below

— Montclair Democrats (@MontclairDems)

Glen Ridge, NJ. Exhilarating speech to thousands....in the rain, no less. Thank you, CB! F-elon and traitor tRump need to GTFO of our WH AND country.
— Q 🇺🇸 🌊 (@Qsuzy)

Local advocacy group SOMA Action reported that 1,000 people showed up in Maplewood to march through town in the rain.

"It shows that we, the people, are standing together against this fascist takeover," the group reported in a post-protest email. "We're growing, we're fired up, and we won't stop."