Large crowds protested Saturday against the war in Iran and the actions of President Trump in what organizers described as “No Kings” rallies across the U.S. And in Europe. Minnesota served as the central location for the demonstrations, which reportedly involved millions of people.
Organizers estimated that previous “No Kings” rallies drew over 5 million participants in June and 7 million in October. On Saturday, they estimated at least 8 million people took part in more than 3,300 events worldwide.
Thousands gathered on the Minnesota Capitol lawn and surrounding streets in St. Paul, with some holding U.S. Flags upside down – a historical sign of distress.
Bruce Springsteen headlined the event, performing “Streets of Minneapolis.” He wrote the song in response to the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents, and as a tribute to Minnesotans who protested the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement.
Before performing, Springsteen lamented the deaths of Good and Pretti, but expressed hope stemming from continued opposition to U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement. He stated, “Your strength and your commitment told us that this was still America,” and “this reactionary nightmare, and these invasions of American cities, will not stand.”
The rally featured singer Joan Baez, actor Jane Fonda, Senator Bernie Sanders, and numerous other activists, labor leaders, and elected officials.
St. Paul police shut down several streets around the Capitol. Organizers estimated over 200,000 people attended the St. Paul rally, surpassing attendance at the 2017 Women’s March.
Hundreds of “No Kings” rallies held across the U.S.
Rallies took place across the country, from New York City to Driggs, Idaho – a town of fewer than 2,000 people.
Philadelphia’s rally drew thousands, shutting down roadways. Large rallies were also organized in Chicago, Texas, and Detroit, with at least 40 events scheduled in Southeast Michigan.
The White House dismissed the protests as the result of “leftist funding networks” with limited public support, stating, “The only people who care about these Trump Derangement Therapy Sessions are the reporters who are paid to cover them,” according to spokesperson Abigail Jackson.
The Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, particularly in Minnesota, was one grievance cited by protesters, alongside the war in Iran and rollbacks of transgender rights.
In Washington, D.C., hundreds marched past the Lincoln Memorial, carrying signs reading “Put down the crown, clown” and “Regime change begins at home.” Demonstrators rang bells, played drums, and chanted “No kings.” Bill Jarcho, from Seattle, participated with a group dressed as insects with “LICE” vests, spoofing ICE.
Approximately 40,000 people marched in a “No Kings” event in San Diego, according to police.
In New York, Donna Lieberman, executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, stated that Trump and his supporters desire people to be afraid to protest, but asserted, “They are wrong — dead wrong.”
Organizers reported that two-thirds of RSVPs for the rallies came from outside major urban centers, including communities in Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, South Dakota, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona.
“No Kings” rallies also held around the world
Rallies also took place in over a dozen countries, including Italy, France, and London. In countries with constitutional monarchies, the protests were called “No Tyrants.”
In Rome, thousands marched against Premier Giorgia Meloni and protested the attacks on Iran, calling for “A world free from wars.” In Paris, several hundred people, including Americans, French labor unions, and human rights organizations, gathered at the Bastille.
Ada Shen, the Paris No Kings organizer, stated, “I protest all of Trump’s illegal, immoral, reckless, and feckless, endless wars.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the “No Kings” rallies?
The rallies protested the war in Iran and actions taken by President Trump, as well as issues like immigration enforcement and the rollback of transgender rights.
Where did the largest rally seize place?
The rally at the Minnesota Capitol in St. Paul was designated the national flagship event.
How many people participated in the protests?
Organizers estimated at least 8 million participants took part in more than 3,300 events worldwide.
As these demonstrations continue, it remains to be seen how they will influence the political landscape and whether they will lead to further action or policy changes.
Worth a look