Protesters of all ages flooded the streets for the ‘No Kings’ rallies across the United States, voicing strong opposition to what they perceive as authoritarianism and rampant corruption under President Donald Trump. Organizers reported that seven million people participated in demonstrations from New York to Los Angeles, with smaller rallies even occurring in the heartland and near Trump’s Florida residence.
The demonstrations, described as largely festive, featured inflatable characters and costumed marchers. The diverse crowds included families with young children, retirees, and pet owners. Remarkably, reports of lawlessness were minimal.
Understanding the ‘No Kings’ Movement
The ‘No Kings’ protests symbolize growing discontent among many Americans, particularly those on the political left. Concerns include the criminal prosecution of Trump’s perceived adversaries, his militarized immigration policies, and the deployment of National Guard troops in US cities. Critics argue these actions are aimed at stifling dissent and consolidating power.
Trump’s administration has been characterized by the rapid implementation of policies, often through the appointment of inexperienced loyalists. Additionally, there has been increased pressure on the media, legal institutions, and higher education.
“There is nothing more American than saying, ‘We don’t have kings’ and exercising our right to peacefully protest,” said Leah Greenberg, co-founder of Indivisible, a progressive organization that played a key role in organizing the events.
Protests Nationwide: A Peaceful Display of Dissent
Demonstrations took place in major cities such as New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, and Seattle, drawing thousands to tens of thousands of participants each. In New York City’s Times Square, police reported “zero protest-related arrests” despite over 100,000 people rallying peacefully across the five boroughs.
On the West Coast, more than a dozen rallies occurred around Los Angeles, with the primary gathering downtown. In Seattle, demonstrators filled a parade route stretching over a mile from downtown to the Space Needle. San Diego saw over 25,000 peaceful protesters, according to police reports.
Kevin Brice, a 70-year-old military veteran in Portland, Oregon, expressed his dismay: “I’m embarrassed that we have federal agents in masks arresting people in the streets. I’m embarrassed that we’re talking about using the military against civilians.”
Trump’s Response and Political Reactions
President Trump responded aggressively to the protests, posting AI-generated videos on his Truth Social platform depicting himself as a king. In one video, he is shown wearing a crown and piloting a fighter jet dropping what appears to be feces on anti-Trump protesters.
House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the rallies as “Hate America” protests, accusing them of bringing together “Marxists, Socialists, Antifa advocates, anarchists, and the pro-Hamas wing of the far-left Democrat Party.”
Republicans have also accused Democrats and movements like ‘No Kings’ of inciting political violence, especially following the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk, a Trump confidant.
Grassroots Support and Future Implications
More than 300 grassroots groups helped organize the marches, according to Leah Greenberg. The American Civil Liberties Union provided legal training to tens of thousands of marshals, focusing on de-escalation techniques.
Prominent figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton endorsed the protests. Senior Democratic lawmakers also expressed support, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stating, “Today’s No Kings rallies are an affirmation of what America is all about. We are a democracy.”
Dana Fisher, a professor at American University, predicted that Saturday’s turnout could be the largest in modern US history, estimating participation at over three million based on earlier events.
While these protests are unlikely to alter Trump’s policies, they may embolden opposition officials at various levels of government. The ‘No Kings’ movement, with its emphasis on peaceful protest and democratic values, continues to resonate with many Americans.
