Massive 'No Kings' Protests Sweep Across the U.S. and Beyond

On June 14, 2025, millions of Americans participated in "No Kings" protests across more than 2,100 cities and towns, voicing opposition to President Donald Trump's policies and actions during his second term, which many perceive as authoritarian and a threat to democratic values. The demonstrations coincided with the U.S. Army's 250th Anniversary Parade and President Trump's 79th birthday.

Organizers estimated that over five million people participated, making it one of the largest mass demonstrations in U.S. history. The protests spanned all 50 states, U.S. territories, and extended internationally to 20 foreign countries, including Canada, Japan, Mexico, and several European nations. In countries with constitutional monarchies, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, the protests were referred to as "No Dictators" or "No Tyrants" to avoid confusion with anti-monarchic movements.

In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the flagship event drew significant crowds. Los Angeles, California, saw approximately 25,000 protesters gather in downtown, leading the Los Angeles Police Department to issue traffic advisories due to multiple marches occurring simultaneously. Protesters assembled in front of the Los Angeles Federal Building, expressing discontent towards the presence of Marines and National Guard members stationed there. In San Francisco, California, tens of thousands participated, with a few hundred demonstrators forming a large human banner on Ocean Beach. An incident in the Mission District involved a driver striking four participants in a hit-and-run, which is under investigation as a possible intentional act.

While the majority of protests were peaceful, several incidents raised safety concerns. In Salt Lake City, Utah, a fatal shooting occurred at a rally, resulting in one death and one injury. In Riverside, California, a hit-and-run incident was reported during the protests. In Minnesota, State House Democratic Leader Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed, and State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were shot. These incidents led to heightened security measures and the cancellation of some planned protests in the state.

In response to the protests and associated incidents, various government actions were taken. In Minnesota, the governor's office activated the State Emergency Operations Center. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries requested enhanced security measures for members of Congress. In Los Angeles, California, the Trump administration deployed approximately 4,000 National Guard members and the United States Marine Corps to manage anti-ICE protests and associated unrest.

Organizers have announced plans for a follow-up demonstration on July 17, 2025, to continue advocating for democratic principles. This date was chosen to honor the legacy of Civil Rights activist and lawmaker John Lewis, who passed away on July 17, 2020. The Transformative Justice Coalition, a key organizer, stated that the upcoming protests will focus on three central themes, though these specific areas of focus were not disclosed in the announcement.

The "No Kings" protests underscore a significant moment of national dissent and civic engagement in response to the current political climate. The widespread participation highlights growing concerns over perceived authoritarian tendencies and the erosion of democratic values under President Trump's administration. As the nation grapples with these divisions, the "No Kings" movement exemplifies the enduring spirit of democratic activism and the ongoing struggle to uphold the principles upon which the United States was founded.