Millions Mobilize for No Kings Protests Against Trump Administration

This weekend, millions of Americans will participate in the No Kings 2.0 protests, aiming to challenge the authority of President Donald Trump and his administration. Organised by Indivisible, a network of local groups focused on nonviolence and democratic inclusion, over 2,500 protests are scheduled for October 18, 2023. These demonstrations represent a continuation of the June No Kings protests, which drew approximately five million participants, marking the largest demonstration against Trump’s second term to date.

A primary goal of the No Kings protests is to assert that governance in the United States belongs to “We the People,” rather than a self-appointed leader. Many are questioning the potential impact of these protests, especially as the Trump administration has consolidated its power in recent months. Support from a Republican-led Congress and a compliant Supreme Court has allowed Trump to undermine the checks and balances established by the U.S. Constitution, leading to widespread concerns over violations of the rule of law.

State officials and lower federal court judges have begun to push back against these infringements. Yet, the collective voice of the people remains a critical force in opposing authoritarianism. The First Amendment guarantees essential rights to protest, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to petition the government for redress. These constitutional rights empower citizens to demonstrate resistance against an administration perceived as overreaching.

The act of protesting holds both real and symbolic significance. It serves as a public refusal to yield authority to an authoritarian regime while reinforcing constitutional values. This is particularly crucial as Trump has faced criticism for failing to uphold his oath to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States,” while simultaneously threatening the rights of many Americans.

Protests also shed light on the detrimental effects of Trump’s policies. From deploying federal troops in U.S. cities to deporting immigrants legally residing in the country, the administration’s actions have sparked outrage. Demonstrations can influence media coverage and political agendas, galvanizing opposition within Congress. The ongoing government shutdown reflects public demand for Democratic leaders willing to advocate for healthcare and social programmes.

Beyond protests, citizens are employing various tactics to challenge the Trump administration. Public opinion polls indicate declining approval ratings for specific Trump policies, including immigration and tariffs. Legal action against the administration is also on the rise, with lawsuits emerging from individuals detained by ICE and small business owners opposing the President’s use of emergency powers.

Consumer boycotts have gained traction as well. Some consumers refuse to buy electric vehicles from Tesla due to CEO Elon Musk’s support for Trump, while others have cancelled subscriptions to Disney’s streaming services following controversies involving late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. These actions demonstrate the influence of organised consumer sentiment.

Voter engagement is another vital component of resistance. Special elections have shown Democratic candidates outperforming expectations, winning more votes than during the 2024 elections. Upcoming elections in November, particularly governor races in New Jersey and Virginia, will see increased participation from Americans both domestically and abroad, including expatriates in places like Aotearoa.

Public protests are crucial as they foster community connections and create a space for creative expression. Demonstrators often engage in playful and humorous displays, which serve to challenge the hostility of the Trump administration, promote solidarity, and instill a sense of agency among participants.

The No Kings protests this weekend are significant, not only for the immediate challenge they pose to the Trump administration but also for their role in fostering a culture of democratic engagement. As citizens unite to voice their dissent, the impact of their actions cannot be underestimated.