Millions Join ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump’s Expanding Power
From New York to Los Angeles, and across the heartland in cities like Chicago, Miami, and Washington, D.C., millions of Americans poured into the streets this weekend in a sweeping show of resistance to President Donald Trump’s expanding presidential authority, according to BBC News.
Under the banner “No Kings,” protesters carried hand-painted signs reading “Democracy, Not Monarchy” and “The Constitution Is Not Optional.” Organizers said nearly seven million people participated nationwide, making it one of the largest peaceful demonstrations in U.S. history.
In New York City, a roaring crowd filled Times Square, spilling down Seventh Avenue under the thrum of drums and chants of “This is what democracy looks like.” The New York Police Department estimated more than 100,000 demonstrators across all five boroughs, reporting no arrests.
“I’m here because I’m watching a move toward authoritarianism,” said Beth Zasloff, a freelance writer. “It gives me hope to be out here with so many others who care.”
Massimo Mascoli, a retired engineer from New Jersey who grew up in Italy, said he joined because he saw echoes of his country’s 20th-century past. “We cannot count on the courts, the government, or Congress,” he said. “All three branches are failing the people. So we are fighting.”
The demonstrations come amid mounting alarm over Trump’s aggressive use of executive orders to dismantle parts of the federal government and deploy National Guard troops in several cities, moves critics call unconstitutional. Trump has dismissed such accusations as “hysterical,” insisting his actions are necessary to rebuild “a country in crisis.”
In a preview of an upcoming Fox News interview, the president brushed off the “king” label. “A king? I’m not a king,” he said, smiling.
In Washington, D.C., the protests unfolded peacefully despite a National Guard standby order. One sign read simply: “I am Antifa.”
“People don’t understand; it means I support peace, healthcare, and equality,” said Chuck Epes, 76. “He’s gaslighting the country, and it’s not working.”
Democratic leaders joined the marches in solidarity. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer held a placard reading “Fix the Healthcare Crisis” in New York, writing on X: “We have no dictators in America and we won’t allow Trump to erode our democracy.”
In Washington, Senator Bernie Sanders told the crowd, “We’re not here because we hate America. We’re here because we love America.” Senators Cory Booker, Adam Schiff, and Chris Murphy also shared footage of packed streets in their states, praising the peaceful displays of unity.
Republican governors in several states had activated the National Guard ahead of the rallies, drawing fierce criticism from Democrats. “Sending armed soldiers to suppress peaceful protest is what kings and dictators do,” said Texas Democrat Gene Wu.
Solidarity demonstrations erupted across Europe and Canada, from London to Berlin to Toronto, echoing the chants heard across the Atlantic: “No Kings!”
According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, Trump’s approval rating stands at 40%, with 58% disapproving, figures that mirror the nation’s deepening divide.
