Written by Lisa Murimi
More than 2,600 “No Kings” protests are set to sweep across all 50 U.S. states on Saturday, in what organizers describe as a mass mobilization against President Donald Trump’s policies on immigration, education, and national security — measures they say are steering the nation toward autocracy.
The demonstrations, ranging from small-town gatherings to massive rallies in major cities, come 10 months into Trump’s presidency and will serve as a barometer of public frustration toward his fast-moving conservative agenda.
The “No Kings” movement follows similar protests held in June and aims to reaffirm democratic principles amid growing political polarization.
“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, the progressive group leading the campaign.
Since taking office, Trump’s administration has intensified immigration enforcement, deployed National Guard troops to several cities, and cut federal funding to universities over issues ranging from pro-Palestinian demonstrations to diversity and transgender inclusion policies. Critics argue these actions reflect an erosion of civil liberties and democratic norms.
Trump has brushed off the planned demonstrations, telling Fox Business that “they’re referring to me as a king — I’m not a king.”
More than 300 grassroots organizations have joined forces to coordinate Saturday’s marches, with support from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which trained tens of thousands of legal marshals and de-escalation volunteers.
The movement has also gained the backing of prominent progressives including Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as numerous celebrities.
In June, over 2,000 “No Kings” protests were held nationwide on the same day Trump marked his 79th birthday with a military parade in Washington, D.C.
Republicans, however, have sharply criticized the rallies. House Speaker Mike Johnson called them “hate America” events, accusing Democratic leaders of fueling division.
“Tomorrow the Democrat leaders are going to join for a big party out on the National Mall,” he said. “We refer to it by its more accurate description: The hate America rally.”
Political scientist Dana Fisher of American University predicted Saturday’s turnout could surpass three million, making it one of the largest protest movements in modern U.S. history.
“It’s not going to change Trump’s policies,” she said, “but it might embolden elected officials at all levels who are in opposition to him — and remind Americans that democracy depends on their participation.”
