Protesters gathered in various cities across the United States on Saturday for “No Kings” demonstrations, expressing discontent with the current direction of the country under President Donald Trump. The rallies, labeled as “Hate America” by the president’s Republican Party, mark the third major mobilization since Trump’s return to the White House in January. The protests coincide with a government shutdown that has led to the closure of federal programs and services, highlighting the power struggle between the executive branch and Congress and the courts, raising concerns about a potential slide towards authoritarianism.
Many demonstrators were particularly incensed by accusations questioning their patriotism. In Maryland, a protester held a sign stating, “Nothing is more patriotic than protesting.” Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., Brian Reymann, carrying an American flag, denounced being labeled a terrorist by Republicans as “pathetic.” He emphasized that despite political disagreements, he believes that everyone loves the country but may have differing views on its governance.
The ongoing protests have drawn attention to Trump’s absence from Washington, as he is currently at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. In response to being referred to as a king, Trump emphasized in a Fox News interview that he rejects such comparisons and underscored that he is not a monarch. The demonstrations are expected to continue near Mar-a-Lago during a fundraising event.
Over 2,600 rallies are scheduled nationwide on Saturday, organized by a diverse array of coalition partners. Unlike earlier protests this year, which targeted issues like government staff cuts and a military parade, organizers believe that the current demonstrations are fostering a more united opposition movement.
Prominent Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Bernie Sanders, are participating in the rallies as a response to what they perceive as threats to democratic values posed by Trump’s policies, such as restrictions on free speech and aggressive immigration enforcement. According to Ezra Levin, a co-founder of Indivisible, a progressive democratic movement, patriotic people-power is crucial in countering authoritarian tendencies.
In New York City, thousands of protesters gathered in Times Square, demanding Trump’s immediate removal and denouncing his immigration policies. Retired family doctor Terence McCormally expressed concerns about the recent deployment of the National Guard, highlighting the need to resist individuals exploiting the country for personal gain at the expense of human lives.
Beyond U.S. borders, solidarity rallies took place globally, including in Canada. Demonstrators in Montreal voiced support for American democracy and rejected Trump’s suggestions about Canada’s sovereignty. Small-scale rallies were also held in major European cities by Americans living abroad, advocating for democratic values and criticizing authoritarian tendencies.
Republicans have condemned the “Hate America” rallies, portraying participants as extremists and blaming them for prolonging the government shutdown. GOP leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, labeled the protesters as communists and Marxists. In contrast, Democrats are standing firm, refusing to vote on legislation to reopen the government until health care funding is secured, viewing the shutdown as a means to challenge Trump and restore the balance of power in the U.S. political system.
The Democrats’ resilience in the face of the current political climate reflects a shift from previous uncertainties, with organizers emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong stance against authoritarianism.
