Scotland’s History of Protesting Donald Trump as He Prepares for Second Term as President
With Donald Trump set to be inaugurated for a second term as President of the United States, the Daily Record reflects on Scotland’s long history of protesting against the divisive figure. Despite his upcoming inauguration following a victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, Trump’s presidency has been met with widespread criticism and opposition, particularly in Scotland.
While Trump enjoys significant support in the US, public sentiment in Scotland remains largely negative towards him. A recent YouGov poll revealed that only 21% of Scots supported Trump’s re-election in 2024, making them his biggest detractors in Western Europe.
Over the years, Scotland has been a hotbed of protests against Trump. Even before his first term in 2016, Scots voiced their dissent against him. From large-scale marches to iconic moments like comedian Janey Godley’s bold sign, the protests have been both impactful and memorable.
The Daily Record has compiled a series of photographs capturing significant moments of protest against Trump in Scotland. These include a Scottish farmer protesting near Trump’s golf course in Aberdeenshire, protesters waving Mexican flags at the Trump International Golf Links, and singer Karine Polwart’s anti-Trump song at the Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow.
Other notable demonstrations include protests against Trump’s Muslim travel ban, anti-racism rallies, and confrontations between opposing groups during Trump’s visit to England and Scotland. Janey Godley’s infamous sign declaring “Trump Is A C**t” and the presence of a “Baby Trump Balloon” during his visit to Edinburgh also left a lasting impression.
As Scotland prepares to witness Trump’s second term as President, these protests serve as a reminder of the strong opposition his presidency has faced in the country. Despite his supporters, Trump’s policies and actions have sparked widespread critique and activism in Scotland, reflecting a deep-seated disapproval of his leadership.
In conclusion, Scotland’s history of protesting against Donald Trump showcases the power of dissent and activism in expressing opposition to divisive political figures. As Trump begins his second term as President, the legacy of these protests serves as a testament to the resilience and vocal resistance of the Scottish people in the face of contentious leadership.