Millions Join “No Kings” Protests Across the U.S. Against Trump’s Expanding Powers
Massive crowds flooded streets across the United States this weekend for the nationwide “No Kings” protests, a growing movement challenging President Donald Trump’s expanding use of executive power. From New York City to Washington D.C., Chicago, Miami, and Los Angeles, millions of Americans gathered to voice concerns that Trump’s policies are eroding democracy and steering the nation toward authoritarianism.
Organizers estimate that nearly seven million people participated in what is now being called one of the largest coordinated demonstrations in modern U.S. history. Protesters carried signs reading “Democracy, Not Monarchy” and “The Constitution Is Not Optional,” emphasizing their alarm over what they describe as a dangerous concentration of presidential authority.
Peaceful Rallies Despite Tensions
Ahead of the protests, Trump allies accused organizers of being linked to the far-left Antifa movement, labeling the demonstrations as “hate-America rallies.” Several Republican-led states even mobilized National Guard troops as a precaution. However, protest organizers stressed that the events were entirely peaceful — and local authorities confirmed there were no major incidents.
In New York City, more than 100,000 people packed Times Square and surrounding streets, chanting “This is what democracy looks like!” as drums echoed through the city. Overhead, helicopters and drones circled while police monitored quietly from the sidelines. According to the New York Police Department, no protest-related arrests were reported.
“I feel outraged at the move toward fascism and authoritarianism,” said Beth Zasloff, a writer who joined the Times Square march. “But seeing so many people come together gives me hope that Americans still believe in democracy.”
Nearby, Massimo Mascoli, a retired engineer from New Jersey who emigrated from Italy, said he feared the U.S. was “following the same path” as his home country during the rise of fascism. “We can’t count on Congress or the courts right now,” he said. “So, we’re fighting — peacefully — for our democracy.”
Trump Responds to “King” Accusations
In an interview with Fox News, President Trump addressed the “No Kings” rallies directly. “They’re calling me a king,” he said in a preview clip. “I’m not a king. I’m doing what’s necessary to rebuild a broken country.”
Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has expanded presidential authority through sweeping executive orders, including dismantling parts of the federal government and deploying National Guard troops to U.S. cities despite objections from governors. He has also urged federal prosecutors to pursue investigations against his political rivals, a move critics say undermines judicial independence.
Trump has repeatedly dismissed accusations of authoritarian behavior as “hysterical,” insisting his actions are essential to restoring order and rebuilding national strength. Yet constitutional scholars and opposition leaders warn that these steps blur the separation of powers enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
Voices From Across America
Protests weren’t limited to coastal cities. From Kansas City to North Carolina, residents took to the streets with creative and colorful demonstrations. In Missouri, a protester dressed in a giant frog costume carried a sign that read “Ribbit, Resist, Repeat.” In Cornelius, North Carolina, demonstrators waved flags and encouraged passing cars to honk in support.
In Washington, D.C., where the National Guard has been on standby since August, tens of thousands gathered near the National Mall. One protester, Chuck Epes, 76, held a sign reading “I Am Antifa.” He said the term was being misused by critics. “It just means I stand for peace, fair wages, healthcare, and equality,” he explained. “Trump is trying to gaslight everyone — and it’s not working.”
Democratic leaders joined the demonstrations nationwide. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer held a sign that read “Fix the Healthcare Crisis” while marching in New York, posting on social media: “We have no dictators in America, and we won’t allow Trump to keep eroding our democracy.”
In Washington, D.C., Senator Bernie Sanders addressed thousands at the Lincoln Memorial. “We’re not here because we hate America,” he declared. “We’re here because we love America and believe in what it stands for.”
Democratic Senators Cory Booker, Adam Schiff, and Chris Murphy also praised the protests online. Murphy called the turnout “breathtaking” and said the day would likely “go down as the biggest day of peaceful protest in our nation’s 250-year history.”
Governors Criticized for Military Deployment
In several states, Republican governors placed National Guard units on standby in anticipation of unrest — a move widely condemned by Democrats. Texas state legislator Gene Wu criticized Governor Greg Abbott, saying, “Sending armed soldiers to suppress peaceful protests is what kings and dictators do — and Greg Abbott just proved he’s one of them.”
In Virginia, Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin also authorized activation of the state National Guard, though no troops were deployed on protest day. Local reports confirmed that rallies across the state remained calm and orderly.
Global Solidarity Movements
The “No Kings” message spread far beyond U.S. borders. Demonstrations took place across Europe and Canada, with protesters showing solidarity with Americans defending democratic values. In London, hundreds gathered outside the U.S. Embassy waving banners reading “Hands Off Democracy” and “No Kings, No Dictators.” Similar rallies occurred in Berlin, Madrid, and Rome, while crowds in Toronto gathered near the U.S. Consulate carrying signs that said “Hands Off Canada.”
America’s Political Divide Deepens
The protests highlight the deepening political divide in the United States over Trump’s leadership. According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, only 40% of Americans currently approve of his performance as president, while 58% disapprove. His approval rating mirrors his first term’s average but remains below the 47% he recorded when he began his second term in January.
Political analysts note that it’s not unusual for presidents to lose popularity over time, yet the scale of the “No Kings” movement signals growing anxiety about the future of American democracy.
“This Is What Democracy Looks Like”
As night fell over Times Square, the chants continued: “No kings! No fear! Democracy is here!” Protesters of all ages, from children to retirees, stood shoulder to shoulder, waving flags and singing patriotic songs.
For many, it wasn’t just about opposing Trump — it was about reaffirming faith in the democratic system. “This isn’t about left or right,” said Zasloff, holding her sign high. “It’s about protecting the country we all love.”