Millions Rally Nationwide in US ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump

Recent nationwide protests in the United States have drawn millions of participants, reflecting the growing dissent against former President Donald Trump. These events, dubbed the “No Kings” protests, highlight the stark divisions in American society regarding Trump’s presidency.

Protests and Public Sentiment

The demonstrations showcased the disapproval of Trump’s administration, with a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll revealing that only 40% of Americans approved of his performance, while 58% disapproved. This trend mirrors that of other presidents as they complete their terms.

Statements from Public Figures

• Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders addressed the Washington, DC crowd, asserting, “We’re not here because we hate America, we’re here because we love America.”
• Senator Chris Murphy celebrated the turnout in Connecticut, calling it “breathtaking” and indicating the day would likely be remembered as one of the largest peaceful protests in U.S. history.

State Responses to Protests

In anticipation of the demonstrations, several Republican governors took precautionary measures. They placed National Guard troops on standby across various states to ensure safety.

• Kansas Senator Roger Marshall mentioned the need for deploying the National Guard prior to the demonstrations, expressing skepticism about their peaceful nature.
• Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered the state’s National Guard to be activated citing concerns over a “planned antifa-linked demonstration” in Austin, which eventually saw about 30,000 attendees.
• Virginia’s Governor Glenn Youngkin also activated the National Guard, although reports indicated that troops were not present during the local protest.

Peaceful Turnout and Community Response

Despite fears of unrest, the protests remained largely peaceful, exemplifying the strong community engagement and passion for social change among participants. This outpouring of support further underscores the deep divide in public opinion about leadership and governance in the U.S.