'No Kings' anti-Trump protests, millions to rally across US: Key points and participants

No Kings protest

Activists and advocacy groups across the United States are gearing up for the second wave of “No Kings” protests on Saturday, October 18, challenging what they describe as President Donald Trump’s growing “authoritarian” tendencies.

The demonstrations are expected to take place in over 2,600 locations nationwide, including major cities like New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Boston, with millions anticipated to participate.

The movement, which first emerged on President’s Day in February, gained national prominence in June during Trump’s military parade celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, which coincided with his 79th birthday.

Organizers say the protests aim to reject unchecked executive power, emphasizing the message: “America has No Kings!” The movement’s website states, “The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don't have kings and we won't back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty.”

Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have condemned the demonstrations, alleging the involvement of “pro-Hamas” and “Antifa” elements and claiming the rallies exacerbate government shutdown issues.

Meanwhile, Democratic senators Chuck Schumer, Chris Murphy, independent Senator Bernie Sanders, and celebrities including Jane Fonda, Kerry Washington, John Legend, Alan Cumming, and John Leguizamo are expected to participate.

Key points about the 'No Kings' protests:

• Nationwide protests on October 18, the second major wave after the June rallies.
• Over 2,600 locations across all 50 states, including anchor cities like NYC, DC, LA, Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston.
• Central slogan: “America has No Kings!”, rejecting unchecked executive power.
• Focus: Opposing military deployments in cities, immigration crackdowns, and policies favoring billionaires.
• Originated on President’s Day; gained prominence in June during Trump’s military parade.
• Participants are encouraged to wear yellow to show unity.
• Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have condemned protests, citing alleged extremist involvement.
• Supporters include Democratic senators Chuck Schumer, Chris Murphy, Bernie Sanders, and celebrities Jane Fonda, Kerry Washington, John Legend, Alan Cumming, and John Leguizamo.
• Protest aims to remain peaceful, providing a counterpoint to perceived presidential overreach.