Trump Claims Golf Victory Amid Market Collapse and Nationwide Protests President Donald Trump declared victory in the Senior Club Championship at his Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida, on Sunday, capping a weekend of golfing as protests swept U.S. cities and financial markets reeled from his tariff policies. The announcement drew sharp criticism from opponents who accused the president of prioritizing leisure over leadership during a crisis.

Golf Win Sparks Backlash Trump confirmed his win to reporters aboard Air Force One, stating, “It’s good to win. You heard I won, right?” after tying with another member to share the championship title. The White House had earlier announced his advancement to the final round following a Saturday victory, marking his second golf tournament win in a month. Critics highlighted the juxtaposition of Trump’s golf schedule with his absence at a dignified transfer ceremony for four U.S. soldiers killed in a Lithuania training accident. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin represented the administration instead. Military veterans like Blythe Potter condemned the decision, calling it a “disrespect” to fallen service members.

“Hands Off!” Protests Sweep the Nation On Saturday, over 1,200 demonstrations unfolded across all 50 states and six countries, including a major rally on Washington’s National Mall where protesters brandished signs like “Stop Destroying America”. Organized under the “Hands Off!” banner, the protests united unions, LGBTQ+ advocates, and environmental activists against Trump’s policies, including efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and impose austerity measures. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the unrest, asserting Trump remains “steadfast” in reshaping federal governance.

Market Meltdown and Recession Fears The president’s “Liberation Day” tariffs—a 10% baseline levy on imports—triggered a historic stock selloff, erasing $5 trillion in market value by April 4. JPMorgan now predicts a 2025 recession, with GDP contracting 0.3% annually and unemployment rising to 5.3%. The Dow Jones plummeted 9.48% in two days, its worst back-to-back loss ever. Senator Chuck Schumer and other Democrats blasted Trump for being “disconnected” from Americans facing dwindling retirement savings.

A Weekend of Contrasts While Trump attended a LIV Golf event and fundraised at Mar-a-Lago, protesters in Boston and beyond framed his policies as existential threats to democracy. The president’s third golf-related trophy this year—following January and March wins—further fueled accusations of a “billionaire bubble” mentality. As markets brace for continued volatility, the administration faces mounting scrutiny over its dual crises of credibility and economic stewardship.