Millions Rally Across the U.S. in ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump

 

Millions Rally Across the U.S. in ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump

By deepoct | October 19, 2025

Washington, D.C., and Across the U.S. – Millions of Americans took to the streets on Saturday in nationwide “No Kings” protests, voicing opposition to former President Donald Trump and what organizers describe as his authoritarian agenda.

The movement, coordinated by the Indivisible Project, held more than 2,700 rallies across the country — hundreds more than the first wave in June — drawing nearly 7 million participants, including over 100,000 protesters in New York City alone. Demonstrations occurred not only in major cities but also in small towns, municipal parks, and along busy thoroughfares in both red and blue states.

Why Protesters Attended

For many participants, the rallies represented a call to protect American democracy. Retired government worker Peggy Cole, who drove nearly 10 hours from Flint, Michigan, said she attended the Washington, D.C., protest to mark her 70th birthday.

“It seems to me, [Trump is] taking our government, our democracy, and dismantling it piece by piece… if we sit by and don’t do anything about it,” Cole told reporters.

The protests followed a summer marked by immigration raids, demonstrations against federal enforcement, and the deployment of federal troops in Democratic-led cities.

Peaceful Demonstrations with Symbolic Colors and Costumes

Organizers emphasized nonviolent action, training tens of thousands in safety and de-escalation tactics. Many protesters wore yellow, symbolizing unity and solidarity with nonviolent resistance movements. Others donned costumes, including dinosaurs, chickens, frogs, and even unicorns, highlighting the playful, peaceful nature of the rallies.

“It’s really hard to call something a war zone, when you look at something and it’s just a block party and people in Halloween costumes,” said a Los Angeles protester.

Chants and slogans echoed across cities, including:

• “This is what democracy looks like”

• “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here”

Protesters also carried American flags, signs opposing ICE, authoritarianism, and billionaire influence in politics.

Incidents and Safety

While the protests remained largely peaceful, some isolated incidents occurred. In South Carolina, a woman was arrested for brandishing a firearm near a demonstration, and in Georgia, a man was seen taking a protester’s flag and shoving another participant. Organizers stressed that such actions are exceptions and reiterated their commitment to nonviolent protest.

Looking Ahead

The “No Kings” movement demonstrates growing public engagement and concern over democratic norms and government accountability in the United States. With continued mobilization, organizers hope to maintain pressure on political leaders and emphasize citizen participation in democracy.