What's driving the massive 'No Kings' protests against Trump's presidency
Tens of thousands marched in major cities and small towns alike, from New York to San Diego, in what analysts said could be one of the largest protest movements in modern US history
Hundreds of thousands of Americans — possibly millions — rallied across all 50 states Saturday in what organizers dubbed the "No Kings" protests, accusing President Donald Trump of behaving more like a monarch than an elected leader.
What's happening
Tens of thousands marched in major cities and small towns alike, from New York to San Diego, in what analysts said could be one of the largest protest movements in modern US history.
Organizers from the progressive network Indivisible estimated more than 2,600 events took place nationwide, with projected participation exceeding 3 million people.
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What they're saying
"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.
"Everything I thought I stood for while serving in the military seems to be at risk," said Kevin Brice, a 70-year-old veteran and former Republican in Portland.
"Now listen, there are those in this country who have decided at the behest of the President to declare war on American cities ... we will not bow or submit to authoritarianism," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.
"Who cares?" said White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson, responding to NPR about the protests.
The big picture
The "No Kings" movement reflects growing unease about what protesters call Trump's authoritarian tilt — citing:
- Prosecution of political rivals
- Militarized immigration enforcement
- National Guard deployments in US cities
- Placement of loyalists in key federal positions
- Cuts to education and environmental protections
The slogan "No Kings since 1776" appeared on thousands of signs nationwide, echoing the movement's central message: the presidency, not a monarchy.
By the numbers
- 2,600+ events across the US
- 100,000+ in New York City alone
- 25,000+ in San Diego
- Turnout possibly exceeding 3 million people, according to sociologist Dana Fisher
Despite the scale, police from major cities including New York and DC reported no protest-related arrests. Officials described the gatherings as peaceful and festive, with participants dressed in patriotic costumes and carrying symbolic props.
Who joined in
The crowds reflected a broad demographic mix — parents, retirees, students, and veterans.
Notably, disillusioned Republicans and military veterans joined the movement. Some said their loyalty was to the Constitution, not a party or president.
"Veterans need to realize we're loyal to the Constitution, not a man," said Adam Livingston, a Marine Corps veteran from Salt Lake City.
Political divide
- Democratic leaders, including Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, expressed support.
- Republican Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the events as a "hate America rally," linking protesters to "antifa" and "pro-Hamas" groups.
- Governors Greg Abbott (Texas) and Glenn Youngkin (Virginia) activated their states' National Guards, citing "preparedness."
Between the lines
The protests — the second major wave since June 14 — show sustained momentum among Trump's critics heading into an election cycle.
The "No Kings" message positions itself as a patriotic defense of democracy, rather than an explicitly partisan movement.
The "No Kings" protests mark one of the largest mass demonstrations in years — a vivid display of Americans' anxieties over democratic backsliding, and a reminder that, as one protester put it,
"We don't have kings — and we intend to keep it that way."
