Large crowds took to the streets across the United States and internationally on Saturday as part of the latest round of “No Kings” protests opposing Donald Trump’s policies, including the war in Iran
and intensified immigration enforcement.
Organisers said demonstrations were held across all 50 states, with thousands of registered events spanning major cities as well as smaller towns.
The protests marked the third major mobilisation by the “No Kings” movement within a year, with participation expected to reach millions.
NATIONWIDE MOBILISATION ACROSS STATES
According to Reuters, more than 3,200 events were planned nationwide, while organisers cited a surge in participation from smaller communities, indicating widening engagement beyond traditional urban protest hubs.
Associated Press reported that rallies took place in locations ranging from New York City to Driggs, Idaho, reflecting geographic diversity in participation.
Large gatherings were reported in cities including Washington, Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia and New York, where tens of thousands marched carrying pro-democracy slogans and anti-Trump placards.
Demonstrators voiced concerns over civil liberties, immigration enforcement and US military involvement in Iran.
AFP reported that organisers estimated millions participated nationwide, describing the movement as one of the most visible expressions of opposition since Trump began his second term in January 2025.
MINNESOTA BECOMES SYMBOLIC CENTRE OF PROTESTS
Minnesota emerged as a focal point of the protests, with a major rally held at the state Capitol in St. Paul.
Associated Press reported that musician Bruce Springsteen headlined the flagship event, performing “Streets of Minneapolis,” a song written following the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents earlier this year.
Speakers at the Minnesota rally framed local resistance to immigration enforcement as emblematic of broader opposition to federal policies.
Reuters reported that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz told demonstrators their actions represented democratic values, while US Senator Bernie Sanders warned against what he described as threats to constitutional norms.
Participants carried images of Good and Pretti, whose deaths have become a rallying point for critics of federal immigration enforcement actions.
PROTESTERS HIGHLIGHT RANGE OF POLICY CONCERNS
While the war in Iran and immigration enforcement were central themes, Associated Press reported that demonstrators also raised concerns related to economic inequality, civil liberties and transgender rights.
Protesters in Washington marched from the Lincoln Memorial toward the National Mall, chanting slogans and holding banners critical of government policies.
Reuters reported that some participants framed their presence as part of a broader effort to defend democratic institutions.
Several protesters referenced historical struggles for freedom, drawing parallels to earlier political movements in the United States.
Organisers said the protests were partly driven by opposition to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has now entered its fourth week.
CLASHES AND POLITICAL REACTION
Although most demonstrations were peaceful, the Associated Press reported that authorities used tear gas near a federal detention centre in Los Angeles after objects were thrown toward security personnel.
Police also made arrests following incidents in Dallas where counter-protesters blocked streets, Reuters reported.
Republican officials criticised the demonstrations, with a White House spokesperson describing them as politically motivated.
The National Republican Congressional Committee also issued statements criticising Democratic figures seen as supporting the protests.
INTERNATIONAL DEMONSTRATIONS SIGNAL GLOBAL ATTENTION
Protests were also held outside the United States, including in London, Paris and Rome, highlighting international concern over US policies.
According to Associated Press, demonstrators in European cities raised slogans opposing far-right politics and military escalation linked to the Iran conflict.
AFP reported that rallies extended to multiple global locations, underscoring the international resonance of the protest movement.
Organisers said participation has continued to grow since the first mobilisation last June, with increasing engagement in suburban and rural areas ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections, Reuters reported.
ALSO READ | US Deploys 3,500 Marines To Middle East After Iran’s Warning Against Troop Build-Up
