‘No Kings’ protests in US: Huge crowd flood streets, Prez Trump responds

Large-scale protests erupted across all 50 states of the United States on Saturday as the government shutdown entered its third week. The demonstrations, organised under the banner of the “No Kings” movement, drew thousands to major cities and small towns alike.

Participants condemned President Donald Trump’s alleged authoritarian tendencies and raised concerns over the implications of the ongoing shutdown.

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As per reports, protesters gathered outside state capitol buildings, including those in Republican-led states such as Montana, Washington, and cities like Los Angeles. In San Francisco, demonstrators assembled on Ocean Beach to form the words “No King!” as a symbolic gesture against perceived executive overreach.

Demonstrators Cite ‘Strong-Arm Tactics,’ Shutdown Impact

Among the protesters was Hayley Wingard, a first-time demonstrator dressed as the Statue of Liberty, who publicly accused Trump of displaying dictatorial behavior, reportedly. Many attendees expressed concern over what they described as the administration’s “strong-arm tactics,” referencing actions such as verbal attacks on the press, political opponents, and undocumented immigrants.

Participants also allegedly pointed to the effects of the prolonged shutdown on federal employees and public services, warning that the continued stalemate could harm democratic institutions. Several groups raised alarms over the use of federal enforcement in immigration raids, calling it an example of militarisation and unchecked executive power.

Trump Responds From Mar-a-Lago; GOP Leaders Dismiss Movement

While the protests unfolded, President Trump remained at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. President Trump responded and said, “They say they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king,” as reported by Fox News. His campaign later released a video depicting him as a crowned monarch, which drew criticism from opponents.

Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, dismissed the protests as gatherings of “Marxists” and “antifa types,” accusing the Democratic Party of aligning with far-left elements.