Leavitt tears into Dems: ‘Lunatics’ want to hand social security to illegals

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt didn't hold back on Monday, slamming Democratic protesters as “lunatics” for organizing nationwide “Hands Off” rallies against President Donald Trump’s policies. Speaking to reporters, Leavitt challenged the credibility of the opposition, asking, "How can American voters take them seriously?"
The protests, which spanned all 50 states, were largely aimed at the Trump administration’s ongoing initiatives — from immigration policy and federal downsizing to reciprocal tariffs. The largest demonstration took place at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., with smaller rallies held at state capitol buildings across the country. Organizers claim more than 1,200 “Hands Off!” events were held.
In a statement provided to The Associated Press, the White House reaffirmed Trump’s stance on entitlement programs: “President Trump’s position is clear: He will always protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
Beyond economic policies, protesters expressed concern over a broad range of issues, including the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, layoffs of federal workers, and recent deportation efforts. Demonstrators also criticized the administration’s decision to pull back on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
The White House has made no apologies for dialing back DEI programs. Trump officials say the effort is about restoring merit-based systems and reducing what they describe as divisive identity politics. A report from the Goldwater Institute earlier this year estimated that DEI mandates at public universities alone have cost US taxpayers nearly $2 billion.
While progressive activists argue that the federal government has a responsibility to uplift marginalized communities and sustain a robust social safety net, concerns have mounted over financial mismanagement. In 2023, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported an estimated $236 billion in improper payments across various social programs.
Despite the protests, the administration has signaled no intention of reversing course on its policies.