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Sunday 22/02/2026

Inflatable Frogs and Tactical Frivolity: Creative Protests Against Trump Administration

People wearing inflatable frog costumes in a protest
Alex CarterAlex Carter

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Protesters against the Trump administration have adopted creative tactics, including inflatable frog costumes, to counter government actions.
  • The frog symbol, once associated with right-wing memes, has been repurposed by activists to highlight the absurdity of militarized responses.
  • The Portland Frog Brigade uses "tactical frivolity" to defuse tensions and challenge the portrayal of protesters as violent extremists.
  • The protests have spread across major US cities, employing innovative methods to engage citizens in non-violent resistance.
  • The use of symbols like frogs in protests underscores the evolving nature of political symbolism and its impact on public discourse.

In a unique twist on political protest, inflatable frog costumes have become a symbol of resistance against the Trump administration's policies, particularly those related to immigration enforcement. This creative approach, known as "tactical frivolity," has been embraced by activists across the United States as a means to challenge the government's actions while defusing tensions with law enforcement.

The Rise of the Frog Symbol

The frog, once a meme associated with right-wing groups, has been repurposed by protesters to highlight the absurdity of militarized responses to peaceful demonstrations. The Portland Frog Brigade, a group of activists donning inflatable frog suits, has become a notable example of this trend. Their whimsical costumes serve to counter the narrative that portrays protesters as violent extremists, instead showcasing the peaceful and creative nature of their resistance.

Innovative Protest Tactics

The protests against the Trump administration have seen a surge in innovative tactics, engaging citizens in non-violent resistance across major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington DC. From coordinated boycotts to symbolic acts like the "ice scraper buy-in" at Home Depot, these methods aim to disrupt and draw attention to the administration's controversial policies. Sociologist Doug McAdam notes that such tactical innovation has historically been a key component of successful social movements.

The Power of Tactical Frivolity

The use of inflatable frogs and other creative symbols underscores the evolving nature of political symbolism in protests. As LM Bogad, a professor specializing in performance art, explains, "Symbols can change and shift, and be reworked." This adaptability allows protesters to reclaim and redefine symbols, turning them into powerful tools for social change.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the protests continue to evolve, the use of creative tactics like inflatable frogs may inspire other movements to adopt similar strategies. The emphasis on non-violent resistance and tactical frivolity could lead to broader public support and increased participation in demonstrations. However, the Trump administration's response to these protests remains a critical factor in determining their impact. Experts suggest that the continued use of militarized force against peaceful protesters could further galvanize public opposition and lead to more widespread calls for policy reform.