US cities prepare for nationwide 'No Kings' protests against Trump
The main demonstration — a "No Kings" march — will be held in Philadelphia, while no protests are scheduled in Washington, DC, where Trump is set to appear at the parade, which coincides with his 79th birthday and Flag Day
Cities across the United States are gearing up for widespread protests on Saturday opposing President Donald Trump, as authorities call for calm, National Guard units mobilize, and Trump marks the US Army's 250th anniversary with a military parade in Washington.
The main demonstration — a "No Kings" march — will be held in Philadelphia, while no protests are scheduled in Washington, DC, where Trump is set to appear at the parade, which coincides with his 79th birthday and Flag Day.
The protests come amid rising tensions over Trump's recent orders to deploy the National Guard and Marines to Los Angeles following violent clashes sparked by federal immigration raids. Demonstrators blocked highways and torched vehicles, prompting a forceful police response that included tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bangs. Several cities have imposed curfews, while Democratic leaders criticized the deployments as an overreach of federal power.
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Despite heightened tensions, both Republican and Democratic governors are urging peaceful protest. Republican-led states including Virginia, Texas, Nebraska, and Missouri have called up the National Guard, citing public safety. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin warned of "zero tolerance" for violence or lawbreaking. Missouri's Gov. Mike Kehoe emphasized a proactive response, and Nebraska's governor issued an emergency declaration as a precaution.
In Florida, protesters plan to march to Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. Gov. Ron DeSantis warned them not to cross the line. Democratic governors like Arizona's Katie Hobbs and Washington's Bob Ferguson called for nonviolent demonstrations.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said law enforcement is coordinating in anticipation of up to 100,000 protesters in Philadelphia. DA Larry Krasner warned against unlawful actions and urged demonstrators to follow the example of Martin Luther King Jr.
The protests, organized under the banner "No Kings," are being led by the 50501 Movement — named to represent 50 states, 50 protests, one cause. The campaign opposes authoritarianism and billionaire-driven politics, framing Trump as a figure behaving more like royalty than an elected official.
Protesters intend to send a message countering the expensive military celebration in Washington, emphasizing that the American flag and democracy belong to the people — not to any one man.
Events are scheduled in nearly 2,000 locations nationwide, with organizers expecting millions to participate in what could be the largest single-day protest since Trump's return to office. Demonstrations are planned to be peaceful, with a strict ban on weapons and a commitment to nonviolence.
