Demonstrators by the hundreds gathered at the California State Capitol in Sacramento on Monday, Feb. 17 – Presidents’ Day – as part of the nationwide “No Kings on Presidents Day” protest, organized by the 50501 Movement.

The demonstration, one of many across the country, aimed to challenge what protesters describe as executive overreach by President Donald Trump and the influence of billionaire adviser Elon Musk.

Chanting slogans such as “We did not elect Musk” and “Democracy, not dictatorship,” activists carried signs denouncing Project 2025, a policy initiative backed by the administration that critics say threatens constitutional checks and balances.

The 50501 Movement, which describes itself as a coalition of grassroots activists, has positioned itself as a nonpartisan effort demanding justice, transparency, and accountability. Organizers say the movement represents a broad coalition of Americans concerned about the erosion of democratic norms.

“We refuse to accept that money should hold the power to undermine the fundamental rights we cherish as Americans,” said a spokesperson for the movement. “The White House must be governed by the will of the people—not by a tech billionaire seeking to consolidate power.”

Monday’s demonstration followed a similar mobilization on Feb. 5, when organizers say more than 20,000 people protested in cities across the country. While the Sacramento event remained peaceful, law enforcement maintained a visible presence near the Capitol building.

For more information on the movement, go to https://www.fiftyfifty.one