Washington
Protesters of all ages took to the streets across the United States on Saturday for the “No Kings” rallies, condemning what they see as authoritarian tendencies and corruption in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Organizers anticipated millions of participants at more than 2,600 events spanning major cities, suburbs, and small towns, marking one of the largest protest efforts in recent U.S. history.
The demonstrations were largely festive and orderly, featuring costumes, balloons, and inflatable characters. Times Square in New York drew massive crowds, with police reporting no arrests, while cities including Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, Seattle, Houston, and San Diego also saw thousands of participants. Marchers included parents with children, retirees, and military veterans, many expressing disillusionment with Trump’s policies, immigration actions, and perceived attacks on democratic norms.
Participants carried signs, U.S. flags, and banners proclaiming opposition to overreach, with some identifying as former Republicans. In Denver, protesters highlighted economic grievances, while in Portland and Houston, veterans criticized the direction of the Republican Party. The movement gained backing from prominent Democratic figures, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Trump responded minimally, stating in a Fox Business interview, “They’re referring to me as a king — I’m not a king.” Despite warnings from Republican leaders like House Speaker Mike Johnson, the protests remained peaceful. Analysts estimate Saturday’s rallies could rival previous nationwide protests, with turnout potentially exceeding three million participants.
