Millions Expected to Join National "No Kings" Protests Against Trump

On October 18, 2025, millions of Americans are expected to participate in "No Kings" protests across over 2,500 locations nationwide. Organized by a coalition led by Indivisible, these demonstrations aim to oppose what organizers describe as President Donald Trump’s authoritarian tendencies and expansion of executive power during his second term.

The "No Kings" movement, which first mobilized in June with over five million participants, criticizes actions such as the deployment of federal forces, censorship of dissent, and suggestions of a third presidential term. The upcoming protests are planned in major cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles, as well as smaller communities, emphasizing peaceful and symbolic demonstrations with slogans like "No Thrones, No Crowns, No Kings." Prominent speakers, including Senator Chris Murphy and representatives from civil rights organizations, are expected to participate.

The protests coincide with a contentious government shutdown, now entering its third week, adding to the political tensions. Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have labeled the protests as "hate America rallies," accusing organizers of politicizing the shutdown. However, organizers stress that the rallies are not tied to the shutdown and focus solely on defending democratic norms and rejecting authoritarianism.

The "No Kings" movement began in June 2025, with over five million participants nationwide. These protests were largely peaceful, though isolated incidents of violence occurred.

On June 14, 2025, during a "No Kings" protest in Salt Lake City, Utah, a tragic shooting occurred when a safety volunteer attempted to stop Arturo Gamboa, 24, who allegedly brandished a rifle near the crowd. The volunteer, a military veteran helping maintain order, fired three shots, hitting both Gamboa and protester Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, who later died. Gamboa, who did not fire his weapon, was arrested on suspicion of murder for instigating the danger leading to Ah Loo’s death, though he had not been charged as of June 18. Police are investigating whether the volunteer's actions were justified and have appealed to the public for additional video evidence. The "No Kings" rally, protesting President Trump’s military parade, was otherwise peaceful and drew around 18,000 participants.

Ah Loo, 39, a former "Project Runway" contestant and respected fashion designer from Samoa, was known for his dedication to uplifting Pacific Island artists. He leaves behind a wife and two children. The presence of armed safety volunteers, typically discouraged, is under scrutiny following the incident.

Organizers emphasize that the demonstrations are intended to be peaceful and symbolic, underscoring the American principle of democracy over monarchy with slogans like "No Thrones, No Crowns, No Kings."

Prominent speakers, including Senator Chris Murphy and representatives from civil rights organizations, are expected to participate.

Ezra Levin, Co-Executive Director of Indivisible, stated, "When Mad King George occupied American cities in 1775, Americans said No Kings. When Mad King Trump occupies American cities in 2025, we again say No Kings!"

Randi Weingarten, AFT President, remarked, "In June, millions marched in hundreds of cities around the country with the clear message: America does not want kings."

The scale and frequency of these protests indicate a significant level of public engagement and concern regarding the state of democracy in the United States.

The contrasting views between protest organizers and Republican leaders reflect the deep political divisions within the country.

The tragic incident in Utah underscores the importance of ensuring safety during large-scale demonstrations and the potential risks associated with armed individuals in protest settings.

The upcoming "No Kings" protests on October 18, 2025, represent a significant moment in the ongoing discourse about executive power and democratic principles in the United States. With widespread participation anticipated, these demonstrations are poised to be a focal point in the nation's political landscape.