
‘No kings’ protests sweep US against Trump policies
Mass protests erupted across the United States as hundreds of thousands of demonstrators rallied under the banner “No Kings,” voicing opposition to President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies.
Organisers described the demonstrations as a coordinated nationwide mobilisation, with more than 3,000 events planned. One of the largest gatherings took place at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, where an estimated 200,000 people attended the flagship rally.
Protesters marched through major cities including New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, chanting slogans and holding placards criticizing immigration enforcement policies and US involvement in the Iran conflict.
The St. Paul rally featured prominent political and cultural figures. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz addressed the crowd and introduced legendary musician Bruce Springsteen, who performed for demonstrators. Other high-profile participants included Bernie Sanders, Joan Baez, Maggie Rogers, and Jane Fonda.
Across the country, protests took varied forms. In Los Angeles, demonstrators marched from City Hall through downtown streets, while in Houston, participants carried a large replica of the US Constitution as a symbol of democratic values. Many rallies featured speeches, musical performances, and symbolic acts emphasizing civic engagement.
Lawmakers also joined the demonstrations. Representative John Larson declared, “There are no kings in America,” warning against what he described as misuse of power. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand echoed similar concerns, calling for governance focused on public welfare rather than personal interests.
Sanders delivered one of the most forceful speeches, criticizing economic inequality and warning against what he described as the growing influence of wealthy elites over politics and media.
Participants cited a broad range of grievances, including immigration policies, economic pressures, and concerns over democratic institutions. The protests reflect a widening wave of political activism across the country, as citizens mobilize in response to domestic and international policy decisions.
The scale and coordination of the “No Kings” movement underscore deepening political divisions in the United States, with demonstrations signaling sustained public opposition and a potentially volatile political climate ahead.