No Kings 2.0” protests erupt nationwide: Are Americans rising against Trump’s ‘authoritarian turn’?

Across the United States today, millions of citizens are taking to the streets in what has become one of the largest coordinated demonstrations of the year. Dubbed “No Kings 2.0,” the movement marks the second wave of protests against President Donald Trump’s administration, with over 2,500 rallies scheduled in all 50 states.

The organizers — led by the Indivisible Project — describe the action as a “peaceful resistance” against what they call an “increasingly authoritarian government.” The campaign builds upon June’s first “No Kings” protests, which drew an estimated five million participants nationwide. Since then, the outrage has only intensified.

At the heart of the protests lies a growing concern about what activists see as the administration’s assault on democratic norms. From sweeping Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids to the deployment of federal troops in Democrat-led states, critics argue that the government is using fear and force to silence opposition. Organizers say today’s demonstrations aim to remind the president — and the nation — that “no one in America is above the Constitution.”

A Country on Pause

The protests come amid a politically charged standoff in Washington, as the federal government remains shut down. Republicans and Democrats have failed to reach a compromise on a funding bill, with Democrats demanding renewed healthcare subsidies before any deal can move forward. The deadlock has paralyzed government operations and amplified tensions nationwide.

Some Republican leaders have tried to link the demonstrations to the ongoing shutdown, with House Speaker Mike Johnson claiming — without evidence — that the rallies are distracting lawmakers from negotiations. Others within the GOP have dismissed the protests as “anti-American” or politically orchestrated events aimed at embarrassing the president.

Calls for Calm

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, anticipating large turnouts across the state, urged demonstrators to remain peaceful. “Peaceful protest is one of the most important rights we have as Americans,” Jackson said in a statement. “Protesting peacefully honors both the cause and the Constitution. Violence undermines democracy.”

The Indivisible Project, organizers of the movement, say they have trained tens of thousands of volunteers in nonviolent action and de-escalation strategies. “We want to make it clear that this is not about chaos or confrontation,” the group said in a statement. “It’s about showing the power of peaceful unity.”

Trump’s Response

In an interview with Fox Business Network, President Trump dismissed the demonstrations, suggesting Democrats were intentionally delaying talks to reopen the government so the protests could proceed. “They’re calling me a king,” Trump said. “I’m not a king. I’m a president trying to do what’s best for America.”

Despite his dismissive tone, the protests have clearly struck a chord. Many Americans see the “No Kings” slogan as a direct challenge to Trump’s leadership style — one critics often describe as autocratic.

More Than a March

Organizers say “No Kings 2.0” is not merely a protest — it’s a movement. Among the core demands are the protection of birthright citizenship, defense of LGBTQ+ rights, reinstatement of federal diversity programs, and an end to what activists describe as “political retribution” by the administration.

As demonstrators gather with placards bearing messages like “Power Belongs to the People” and “Democracy Over Dictatorship,” the streets have once again become a reflection of the nation’s political divide. Yet, for millions, today’s protests represent more than dissent — they symbolize a deep-seated belief that democracy must never bow to a crown.

FAQs

1. What is the “No Kings” protest about?
The protests are a nationwide demonstration opposing what organizers describe as President Trump’s authoritarian policies and militarized governance.

2. Who is organizing the demonstrations?
The Indivisible Project, a nonprofit group promoting civic action, is leading the nationwide movement.

3. How many protests are planned?
More than 2,500 demonstrations are expected across all 50 states.

4. Are the protests violent?
No. Organizers emphasize nonviolent action and have trained thousands in peaceful protest and de-escalation.

5. What does the government shutdown have to do with the protests?
The demonstrations coincide with a shutdown caused by stalled negotiations between the White House and Congress over healthcare funding.