US Protests “No Kings” Begin with National Guard on Standby
Protests against President Donald Trump, organized by the coalition “No Kings,” commenced in New York City. This rally marks the first of over 2,500 events scheduled across the United States. Thousands gathered in Times Square, echoing sentiments from past demonstrations that drew more than five million participants nationwide.
Background of No Kings Protests
The “No Kings” coalition comprises primarily left-leaning groups. Their previous events focused on challenging Trump’s perceived authoritarianism, emphasizing that the United States does not accept the notion of a king. “We won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty,” the organizers stated.
National Guard Preparedness
- Republican governors from various states have placed National Guard troops on standby.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated the National Guard ahead of an Austin protest, citing concerns about connections to Antifa.
- Democrats criticized this decision, claiming it equates to suppressing peaceful demonstrations.
Solidarity Across the Globe
Simultaneous protests occurred in major European cities like Berlin, Madrid, and Rome, expressing solidarity with those in the U.S.
Statements from Key Figures
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is set to speak at the Washington D.C. rally. Meanwhile, Trump has spoken publicly about the protests, asserting, “I’m not a king,” in a preview of an interview aired shortly after the demonstrations began.
Celebrities Join the Cause
Prominent figures are lending their voices to the protests. Notable attendees include:
- Jane Fonda
- Kerry Washington
- John Legend
- Alan Cumming
- John Leguizamo
Actor Robert De Niro also urged participation, promoting non-violent expression. His message resonated with the historical value of American democracy.
As protests unfold across the nation, the emphasis remains on challenging the idea of authoritarian rule, asserting that democracy should remain a fundamental tenet of American society.
