Nationwide “No Kings” Protests Draw Millions, Spark Clashes in Los Angeles
Millions of people marched across the United States and in several European cities yesterday, participating in nationwide “No Kings” protests denouncing President Donald Trump’s policies and rhetoric.
Organizers reported approximately seven million participants across all 50 US states, including demonstrations near Trump’s residence in Florida. Protesters voiced concerns over what they described as the president’s “strong-arm tactics,” citing his criticism of the media, political adversaries, and undocumented immigrants. Demonstrations in solidarity were also held in European capitals including Madrid, Paris, and Helsinki, with some organized by Democrats Abroad, who invited participants in Rome to protest against “Trump and his heartless administration.”
Senator Bernie Sanders addressed a crowd gathered outside the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., warning of potential threats to democracy. “We have a president who wants more and more power in his own hands and in the hands of his fellow oligarchs,” Sanders stated. While largely peaceful, the protests in Los Angeles saw unrest late Saturday, with police deploying nonlethal rounds and tear gas to disperse a group that included “No Kings” protesters, according to the Los Angeles Times. The LAPD reported that approximately one hundred individuals used lasers and flashing lights before a dispersal order was issued.
President Trump responded to the protests on his Truth Social platform with several AI-generated videos portraying himself as a king, including one depicting him dropping what appeared to be feces on protesters. House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the rallies as “Hate America” protests, claiming they were fueled by “Marxists, Socialists, Antifa advocates, anarchists and the pro-Hamas wing of the far-left Democrat Party.” These protests highlight the deep political divisions within the country as the nation approaches the next presidential election cycle, and could influence voter turnout. Political polarization has been a growing concern in recent years.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and assess any potential for further demonstrations in the coming days.
