Thousands Rally Nationwide in 'No Kings' Protests

Thousands took part in a nationwide 'No Kings' day of action, with organizers staging more than 2,500 rallies across all 50 states to protest what they described as authoritarian moves by the Trump administration, including immigration crackdowns and attacks on the press and political opponents. Demonstrations ranged from family-friendly, costume-filled marches in small cities to large turnouts in major metros — organizers in Oakland said about 10,000 marched and Billings drew over 3,000, with sizable crowds reported in Philadelphia, San Antonio, El Paso, Columbus, Shreveport and Olympia. Participants said the goals were defending democracy and free speech, building local organizing capacity through donations and sign-ups, and pressuring city and national leaders, and groups such as Indivisible and Common Cause helped coordinate events. Most demonstrations were peaceful and often lightened by inflatable costumes and theatrical signs, though Republican leaders derided the protests as 'Hate America' rallies and the president responded that "I'm not a king," underscoring partisan divisions.