• Multiple left-wing activist bodies, including Action Network and Be A Hero, alongside healthcare workers’ unions such as National Nurses United and Voices of Healthcare, have called for a protest at Columbus Circle in Washington, DC, at 12:00 (local time) on March 12.
• The protest is being held to denounce House Republicans’ reported plans to legislate budget cuts by instructing the House Energy and Commerce Committee to cut spending under its jurisdiction by 880 billion USD, which oversees the Medicaid and Medicare federal healthcare programs.

1. Sentiments among left-wing activists and supporters of the Democratic Party have intensified since the inauguration of President Donald Trump, particularly in opposition to his alleged far-right agenda, including cuts to government expenditure and budgeting. On March 7, healthcare and scientific research sector workers participated in protests nationwide under the banner ‘Stand Up for Science,’ including in Washington, DC, where turnouts in the low-to-mid thousands were recorded.
2. FORECAST: Based on this precedent, coupled with persistent anti-government sentiments and the participation of multiple civil society bodies, the upcoming protest is expected to draw a higher attendance in the mid-to-high thousands and is likely to remain peaceful without major incidents of unrest. However, given the heightened sentiments, a security presence is anticipated at Columbus Circle, due to its proximity to major federal government buildings, to monitor proceedings and regulate traffic. Additionally, given the anticipated turnout, significant disruptions to pedestrian and vehicular traffic are expected near the protest.

Those operating or residing in Washington, DC on March 12 are advised to allot for travel disruptions near Columbus Circle due to the slated protest.