Millions to March in Nationwide ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump Policies
Over 2,500 ‘No Kings’ protest events are planned nationwide as demonstrators oppose President Trump’s policies, including the federalization of the National Guard and ICE raids. The movement, led by progressive groups like Indivisible, is expected to draw millions to cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles, with participants encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize unity against perceived oppression.
The demonstrations, which have been coordinated by over 200 progressive groups under the Indivisible coalition, aim to challenge the administration’s decision to federalize the National Guard and deploy federal troops to major cities like Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Memphis, Portland, and Chicago. Participants were urged to wear yellow as a symbol of collective resistance against the perceived overreach of federal power, with organizers accusing the Trump administration of silencing voters and favoring corporate interests over the needs of ordinary citizens.
National Guard units currently remain under federal command in several cities, despite a federal judge blocking their direct street deployment in Chicago. This decision has sparked widespread debate about the militarization of law enforcement and the role of the federal government in domestic affairs. Critics argue that the deployment represents a dangerous expansion of executive authority, while supporters contend it is a necessary measure to maintain order in the face of escalating protests.
At the same time, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has intensified raids targeting undocumented immigrants, particularly in areas where day laborers often gather, such as Home Depot parking lots. These operations have drawn significant public outcry, with critics accusing the administration of disproportionately targeting vulnerable communities while failing to address broader issues of economic inequality.
The protests have also sparked political tensions, with Republicans condemning the demonstrations as unpatriotic. House Speaker Mike Johnson has specifically labeled the movement as being driven by ‘the pro-Hamas wing and the Antifa people,’ suggesting that he sees the protests as being influenced by radical leftist groups. This rhetoric adds to the national debate over First Amendment rights and the limits of free speech in the face of large-scale civil unrest.
Further complicating the situation, some officials have expressed concerns about the potential involvement of paid agitators and foreign influence in the protests. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., warned that ‘the agitators show up,’ suggesting he believes the protests could become increasingly volatile. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson, however, dismissed these concerns, stating, ‘Who cares?’ in response to questions about the use of National Guard units to manage crowds.
The ‘No Kings’ movement first gained national attention in June when similar demonstrations were held in response to the Army’s 250th anniversary military parade. This event highlighted growing public discontent with the increasing militarization of American society and the perceived disconnect between federal policies and the lived experiences of many U.S. citizens.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., has openly supported the movement, tweeting that he ‘looks forward to No Kings Day.’ His comment drew a pointed response from Republicans, who have long criticized the Democratic Party for allegedly prioritizing radical ideologies over mainstream concerns. The ongoing debate reflects a broader national reckoning with the role of the federal government and the growing polarization of American political discourse.