 |
| 'No Kings' demonstrations around the country protest Trump's military parade/ Independent News |
Washington, D.C. — Thousands of people across the U.S. took to the streets Saturday in “No Kings” demonstrations, protesting what they see as President Donald Trump’s growing authoritarian grip on the country.
The rallies — held in Washington, New York, and more than 2,600 other cities — mark the third major wave of protests since Trump’s return to the White House. They come amid a government shutdown that has paralyzed federal services and deepened tensions between the White House, Congress, and the courts.
Republican leaders, meanwhile, have branded the movement as “Hate America” rallies, accusing protesters of being unpatriotic and far-left extremists.
Anger and Patriotism on Display
In Maryland’s Bethesda suburb, one protester’s sign summed up the mood: “Nothing is more patriotic than protesting.”
In Washington, Brian Reymann carried a large American flag and slammed the rhetoric coming from the GOP.
“Calling people terrorists just because they disagree — that’s despicable,” he said. “This is America. We can disagree without being enemies.”
Similar scenes played out nationwide. In New York City’s Times Square, thousands chanted “Trump must go now,” waving flags and holding signs criticizing the president’s policies, especially his immigration crackdowns.
Even abroad, small groups of Americans gathered in major European cities, showing solidarity with protesters back home.
Trump Dismisses Criticism, Heads to Florida Fundraiser
Before leaving for a $1 million-per-plate MAGA fundraiser at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump brushed off the “No Kings” label.
“They say they’re calling me a king. I’m not a king,” he told Fox News.
Despite his absence, protests were expected near his Florida estate as part of Saturday’s demonstrations.
A Growing Opposition Movement
Organizers say this latest wave of protests represents a stronger, more unified resistance to Trump’s administration.
“Authoritarian regimes fear one thing most — people power,” said Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, one of the main organizing groups.
The rallies were joined by top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Independent Senator Bernie Sanders. Both framed the demonstrations as a defense of American democracy and free speech.
Retired doctor Terence McCormally, who planned to march across Arlington’s Memorial Bridge, voiced concern about the recent deployment of the National Guard. “I’m more afraid of the police than I used to be,” he admitted. “These crooks and zealots are hurting millions while pretending to serve the country.”
Republicans Fire Back
GOP leaders painted the protests as extremist and accused Democrats of siding with radicals to prolong the government shutdown, now entering its 18th day.
House Speaker Mike Johnson labeled the rallies “Hate America” events, predicting “Marxists” and “antifa types” would dominate the crowd.
Senator Bernie Sanders shot back on Facebook: “It’s not a hate rally. It’s a love America rally — by people who believe in the Constitution and freedom.”
Democrats Regain Their Footing
Democrats, refusing to vote on a bill to reopen the government without healthcare funding guarantees, argue that standing up to Trump is part of restoring balance between the branches of government.
Just six months ago, the party seemed fractured. Now, many see the protests as a turning point.
“What we’re seeing is Democrats showing some spine,” said Levin. “The worst thing they could do now is surrender.”
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries added, “What’s hateful is what happened on January 6th. What you’ll see this weekend — that’s what real patriotism looks like.”
Post a Comment