Austin, October 17, 2025
News Summary
In anticipation of a ‘No Kings’ protest against President Trump’s policies, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the deployment of National Guard troops to Austin. The protest aims to challenge governmental policies while ensuring actions remain nonviolent. Law enforcement will maintain order during the event at the Texas State Capitol and beyond, as concerns arise over potential infringements of First Amendment rights. The Texas Department of Public Safety is monitoring the situation for possible links to violence. Past protests have drawn thousands, and this weekend’s event is expected to see significant participation.
Austin
The Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of Texas National Guard troops to Austin in anticipation of a planned demonstration linked to antifa this weekend. The deployment is timed to coincide with a “No Kings” protest aimed at challenging President Trump’s policies, with organizers encouraging nonviolent actions to defend democracy.
Abbott has instructed both the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard to send personnel and tactical assets to Austin. The law enforcement presence will include state troopers, Special Agents, Texas Rangers, and National Guard soldiers focused on maintaining law and order within the city. Abbott has underscored that violence and destruction will not be tolerated in Texas, emphasizing a need to ensure the safety of Austin residents during the protest.
The Texas DPS Homeland Security Division is actively monitoring the planned protest along with other potential violent demonstrations across the state. The department is prepared to investigate any linkages to known terrorist organizations, asserting a commitment to take action against individuals involved in unlawful activities.
Nationwide, approximately 2,600 pro-democracy rallies are expected as part of the “No Kings” demonstrations, with millions anticipated to participate. The initial set of “No Kings” protests in June drew approximately 5 million attendees at around 2,200 locations.
The Austin demonstration is set to begin at the Texas State Capitol at 2 p.m. before marching to Auditorium Shores at 2:30 p.m. Although the exact number of National Guard troops heading to Austin has not been disclosed, similar protests in June saw approximately 5,000 troops deployed statewide. There are also planned protests in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area and other Texas communities this weekend.
Texas Democrats have criticized the deployment, arguing it may infringe upon First Amendment rights and might serve as an attempt to intimidate protesters. Past protests in Austin have resulted in several arrests, with charges that included felony assault of a peace officer and trespassing.
President Trump has previously referred to protesters as individuals who “hate our country,” suggesting that violent demonstrators would face a strong response. However, Abbott’s claim of antifa involvement in the protests lacks concrete evidence linking the groups to any violent activities. The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed there are currently no plans to close the state capitol or its grounds, stating that law enforcement will be present to monitor the event.
Political analysts have raised concerns that heavy-handed actions taken by the state could deter peaceful protests and suppress free speech.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the National Guard deployment in Austin?
The deployment of the Texas National Guard is to maintain law and order during the planned “No Kings” protest against President Trump’s policies.
When and where is the “No Kings” protest taking place in Austin?
The protest is scheduled to begin at the Texas State Capitol at 2 p.m. and will march to Auditorium Shores at 2:30 p.m.
How many pro-democracy rallies are expected nationwide?
Approximately 2,600 pro-democracy rallies are expected nationwide as part of the “No Kings” demonstrations.
Key Features of the “No Kings” Protest and National Guard Deployment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | No Kings Protest |
| Location | Austin, Texas |
| Date and Time | This weekend starting at 2 p.m. |
| Reason for Deployment | Maintain law and order during protests |
| Total Troops Deployed | Approximately 2,600 statewide (exact number for Austin not disclosed) |
| Political Context | Criticism of potential infringement on First Amendment rights |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Greg Abbott
- KXAN News
- Google Search: No Kings protest Austin
- NBC DFW
- Google Scholar: National Guard deployments
- Fox 4 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas National Guard
- CBS Austin
- Google News: Texas National Guard protest
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