Protesters Across US Target Trump, Demand Living Wage on Labor Day

Demonstrators marched in cities across the United States on Labor Day to denounce former President Donald Trump and call for higher wages, immigration protections, and workers’ rights.

In New York, crowds rallied outside Trump Tower, chanting “Trump must go now!” and carrying banners accusing his administration of fascism. Similar protests were held outside Trump Tower in Chicago, where chants of “No National Guard” and “Lock him up!” rang out. Large gatherings were also reported in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle.

The demonstrations were organized by labor advocacy group One Fair Wage, highlighting the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour and broader frustrations over economic inequality. “We’re here because our core values and our democracy are under attack,” Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss told protesters in Chicago.

Along the West Coast, hundreds rallied against what organizers called a “billionaire takeover,” accusing the wealthy of exploiting workers and undermining democracy. Union groups and federal workers’ supporters joined marches in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland.

Some protesters linked economic struggles to global crises. “When we’re dealing with low wages and a stagnant economy, immigrants are used as scapegoats,” said Ziri Marquez, 25, at the Chicago rally, while also condemning Palestinian deaths in Gaza.

In Seattle, King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda said the protests sent a clear message: “Workers should be more powerful than the small billionaire class.”