Hundreds protest Trump's policies during Madison rally
MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Hundreds of demonstrators protested President Donald Trump's policies during a rally in Madison on Wednesday, Feb. 5.
The protest was in conjunction with the nationwide "50501" movement, "50 States, 50 Protests, One Day."
In Madison, protesters took to the steps of the state Capitol to voice their concerns over the Trump administration.
"It's so hard to sit and watch the news," said Karyn Chacon of Madison. "It's really devastating. It's good to be out here with a number of people."
Demonstrators marched from the Capitol down State Street to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
Protesters advocated for a variety of causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and government accountability. Others showed up to condemn the President's policies related to immigration and education including concerns over members of Trump's inner circle, like billionaire Elon Musk.
Several signs at the protest criticized DOGE, the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Musk.
"It's something that shouldn't be allowed to go unchecked," Nova Verboomen-Mild said about DOGE and its sweeping plans to cut government waste and regulations. "It's something that shouldn't be allowed to happen to begin with."
The protest took place hours after Trump proposed plans to "take over" the Gaza strip and called on Palestinians to move.
Trump's suggestion comes amid a fragile Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. Negotiations have begun in the second phase of the ceasefire agreement after several hostages have been released from Gaza.
Tim Eldridge, a Madison resident, said he was shocked to hear about President Trump's plans for the Middle East.
"It's appalling," Eldridge said. "I can't believe anyone supports that type of behavior."
Miranda Taylor of Johnson Creek also criticized the move.
"I think the country should be given back to its people, not something we should be taking over," Taylor said.
A few pro-Trump supporters showed up during the demonstration to express their views on policies enacted by the White House. Their conversations with protesters remained peaceful.
Wednesday's protests come days after rallies in opposition of Trump's immigration plans, including mass deportations of individuals living in the U.S. illegally.