Nationwide, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Millions gathered across the U.S. and internationally for the ‘No Kings’ rallies against President Trump’s administration. The protests saw approximately 7 million attendees in over 2,700 cities, marking one of the largest single-day demonstrations in U.S. history. Participants rejected authoritarianism and called for democracy. Notable protests occurred in major cities where political figures spoke against the administration’s policies. Despite some arrests, the events were largely peaceful, with vibrant displays of resistance against perceived threats to civil liberties.
Nationwide Protests Mobilize Millions Against Trump’s Administration
Crowds gathered in cities across the U.S. and overseas for the “No Kings” rallies against President Donald Trump’s administration. Approximately 7 million people attended the No Kings rallies, making it one of the largest single-day nationwide demonstrations in U.S. history. The protests occurred in over 2,700 cities and towns across all 50 states, with today’s turnout representing 2 million more than the previous No Kings rallies held in June.
Ezra Levin and Leah Greenberg, co-founders of Indivisible, stated that the demonstrations rejected authoritarianism and affirmed that democracy belongs to the people. Noteworthy protests took place in major cities, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and Austin, Texas, where participants expressed fears that the U.S. is sliding toward autocracy.
In Broadview, Illinois, four individuals were arrested during protests near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, with one charged with disorderly conduct. While protests in Portland were also marked by arrests connected to assaults, the main No Kings march in Portland was described as peaceful. Thousands rallied in Washington, D.C., focusing on dissatisfaction with both Trump and Democratic leaders.
In Austin, Texas, attendees showcased support for women’s and LGBTQ rights and abortion access, with multigenerational family participation at the protests. Former Democratic Representative Beto O’Rourke participated in the Austin rally, denouncing Governor Greg Abbott’s mobilization of the National Guard. Organizers emphasized the rallies would remain peaceful amid threats of National Guard deployments in various states.
Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the federal government’s actions and promised solidarity against perceived authoritarianism, projecting that 10,000 demonstrators amassed in Austin without unrest or National Guard presence. In New York, the NYPD reported over 100,000 attendees across five boroughs, with no protest-related arrests.
Political figures like Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren spoke at rallies, framing the gatherings as patriotic expressions of democracy. The protests featured themes of resisting fascism, protecting civil liberties, and promoting accountability. These events also gained international attention, with solidarity rallies held in cities like London, Berlin, and Madrid.
Protesters carried signs including “Democracy not Monarchy” and “Resist Fascism,” showcasing a creative and colorful atmosphere. Trump’s response to the protests included comments denying he is a king while ridiculing the demonstrations. The protests also called for the abolishment of ICE and criticized Trump’s policies, along with the deployment of National Guard troops in American cities.
Many participants expressed concerns over a perceived attack on the First Amendment and the right to protest. The movement is part of broader dissatisfaction with the current state of democracy in the U.S., amid a government shutdown and increased tensions. In various locations, protesters donned inflatable costumes depicting animals, further highlighting the protests’ playful yet serious tone against rising authoritarianism.
Key Features of the “No Kings” Protests
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Attendees | Approximately 7 million |
| Location of Protests | Over 2,700 cities and towns across all 50 states |
| Arrests | Multiple, including in Broadview and Portland |
| Political Engagement | Participation of notable political figures, including Beto O’Rourke |
| Focus of Protests | Opposition to authoritarianism and policies of the Trump administration |
| International Solidarity | Rallies held in cities including London, Berlin, and Madrid |
| Themes | Resisting fascism, protecting civil liberties, and promoting accountability |
FAQ
What were the “No Kings” protests about?
The protests mobilized against President Donald Trump’s administration, rejecting authoritarianism and asserting that democracy belongs to the people.
How many people attended the “No Kings” rallies?
Approximately 7 million people attended the No Kings rallies, making it one of the largest single-day nationwide demonstrations in U.S. history.
Were there any arrests during the protests?
Yes, there were multiple arrests, including four individuals in Broadview, Illinois, and arrests connected to assaults in Portland. However, the main march in Portland was described as peaceful.
Did any political figures participate in the rallies?
Yes, notable political figures like Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren spoke at rallies, alongside former Democratic Representative Beto O’Rourke.
What themes were highlighted in the protests?
The protests included themes of resisting fascism, protecting civil liberties, and promoting accountability.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Protesters Rally in Austin Against Trump Administration
No Kings Protest Draws Thousands in Austin
Thousands Protest at Texas State Capitol Against Trump Administration
No Kings 2 Protest in Austin Promotes Democracy
Massive No Kings Protests Erupt Across Texas Against Trump
Increased Security Measures for ‘No Kings’ Protest in Austin
Texas Governor Deploys National Guard Ahead of Protests
Texas Deploys National Guard for Upcoming ‘No Kings’ Protest
Texas Governor Deploys National Guard for Austin Protest
Texas Governor Deploys National Guard for Upcoming Protests
Additional Resources
- The Guardian
- Wikipedia: Protests against Donald Trump
- BBC News
- Google Search: No Kings protests 2025
- Al Jazeera
- Google Scholar: No Kings protests
- Euronews
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protests against Trump
- CNN
- Google News: No Kings protests
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