PHOENIX — Demonstrations against the Trump administration reached record levels across Arizona on Saturday, as organizers reported the highest turnout yet for the “No Kings” movement.
Growing Concerns Fuel Protests
The protests, which have been coordinated in June and October of 2025, saw participants voice new concerns regarding the U.S. War in Iran and planned ICE detainment centers in Surprise and southern Arizona. Volunteer organizer Brent Peak stated, “We don’t want a Congress that is a rubber stamp for war and a budget, and we don’t want draconian immigration enforcement.”
Surprise Sees Significant Turnout
The nonprofit Northwest Valley Indivisible hosted nine protests spanning from Goodyear to Anthem, with an estimated 10,000 participants registered across all locations. A single protest at the Surprise Civic Center drew 3,200 demonstrators. Peak noted, “We were blown away by that number. It says a lot about people’s concerns over ICE.” Concerns over the planned facility stem from questions raised about a $313 million contract for the warehouse, as well as broader concerns about ICE tactics.
Symbolism and Unity on Display
Demonstrations took on symbolic weight in Tempe, where participants dressed as characters from “The Handmaid’s Tale” marched over the Cole Park Bridge. One protester, wearing a red gown, stated, “Right now the indicate is very relatable. We must not allow a tyrant dictator to take over this country.”
Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered at other locations throughout Arizona, including a large crowd at the intersection of Camelback and Scottsdale roads. Organizers with Scottsdale Women Rising reported approximately 6,000 participants at their location, a significant increase from the 3,000 who attended their October rally. Shea Najafi stated, “Today was a powerful demonstration of unity from people from all walks-of-life, and across the political spectrum. Young and ancient, Democrats, Republicans and Independents are all on the same page–Trump is a menace and has got to go.”
In Mesa, a protestor marching with her daughter and grandson expressed a sentiment shared by many: “I feel Trump is destroying everything we stand for. This day means we are growing and we are getting stronger in our movement.”
The protests occurred alongside reports that three non-profits gave the U.S. Historically low scores for the State of Democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary concerns driving these protests?
Protestors are voicing concerns about the U.S. War in Iran and planned ICE detainment centers in Surprise and southern Arizona.
Where did the protests take place?
Dozens of cities across Arizona hosted protests, including Phoenix, Surprise, Tempe, and Scottsdale. Protests also spanned across the “West Valley” and “East Valley” areas of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.
How many people participated in the protests?
Organizers reported record numbers, with an estimated 10,000 registered participants across nine protests hosted by Northwest Valley Indivisible, and 3,200 demonstrators at the Surprise Civic Center alone.
As these demonstrations continue, will the momentum translate into sustained political action or broader shifts in public opinion?
