Across major U.S. cities on Saturday, thousands of demonstrators participated in a coordinated day of protest, dubbed the “No Kings” movement, in opposition to former President Donald Trump’s planned military parade and broader authoritarian policies. The demonstrations also served as a response to immigration raids and rising concerns about federal overreach.
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Protests Across the Nation
In downtown Los Angeles, thousands gathered near City Hall to voice their opposition. Similar scenes unfolded in Santa Monica and West Hollywood, where signs condemned local figures associated with Trump-era policies. One protester held a sign reading, “Santa Monica apologizes for Stephen Miller,” referencing the city native and former Trump adviser.
Screenwriter and activist Dustin Lance Black addressed the crowd in West Hollywood, urging unity and rejecting tactics aimed at dividing marginalized communities. “They are trying to piss us off, one group after the other… so we become divided,” he said.
Federal Response and Political Repercussions
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass encouraged peaceful assembly, warning against actions that could provoke federal intervention. Following prior unrest, Trump ordered the deployment of 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to several regions, including L.A., in anticipation of demonstrations linked to ICE raids.
California Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, accusing it of abusing its authority. “This is a prelude to further authoritarian actions,” Newsom warned earlier in the week.
Tragic Shootings in Minnesota
The day’s events were overshadowed by the fatal shootings of Minnesota Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the wounding of Senator John Hoffman and his wife. The attacks took place in suburban homes in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, respectively.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the incidents as likely “politically motivated assassinations.” Authorities are searching for Vance Luther Boetler, 57, as a person of interest. Papers discovered in the suspect’s vehicle were marked with the words “NO KINGS.”
As a result, officials urged Minnesotans to avoid attending planned protests due to safety concerns.
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Protest Symbolism and National Impact
In Philadelphia, considered the flagship rally, protesters opened with a moment of reflection for the victims in Minnesota. Speakers included Martin Luther King III and historian Timothy Snyder, both of whom emphasized the urgency of resisting authoritarianism and remaining united.
Protesters in multiple cities carried American flags, reclaiming patriotic imagery to symbolize resistance. The day also coincided with Flag Day, further reinforcing themes of democracy and civic unity.
Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, reflected on the U.S. flag’s origins during the Revolution: “It was a symbol of hope in the face of despair… a resistance to tyranny.”
Despite security restrictions in Washington, D.C., demonstrators marched near the White House, chanting “We refuse to accept a fascist America” and displaying banners such as “Trump Must Go Now.”
Organized Civil Resistance
The protests were led by a broad coalition, including Indivisible, ACLU, and Public Citizen. Organizers emphasized the decentralized nature of the events, choosing not to center activity in D.C. to highlight that “real power isn’t staged in Washington.”
Saturday’s events mark a pivotal moment of resistance and reflection for many Americans concerned with democratic decline, militarization, and rising political violence.
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