Thousands of protesters gathered in downtown San Antonio late Saturday afternoon to denounce President Donald Trump’s administration. This demonstration was one of more than 3,000 coordinated across the country as part of the third “No Kings” day since the President took office.
Demonstrations Across Texas
Approximately 2,000 people assembled in Travis Park just after 4 p.m., carrying signs with messages including “No crown for this clown,” “Dump Trump,” and “Democracy not dictatorship.” Protesters planned to march around downtown beginning at 5 p.m.
Similar rallies occurred throughout the San Antonio area, including in Schertz, New Braunfels, Seguin, Boerne, San Marcos, and Hondo. Previous “No Kings” day protests in San Antonio, held in June and October, were peaceful, with no arrests or clashes reported between demonstrators and law enforcement.
Government Response
During the June protest, Governor Greg Abbott deployed thousands of National Guard troops and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to cities across the state. These troops were present at the Alamo but did not confront protesters. Governor Abbott did not deploy the National Guard for the October protest.
Early Saturday, police presence in San Antonio was limited, with only a handful of police cars parked near Travis Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first “No Kings” day protest in San Antonio occur?
The first “No Kings” day protest in San Antonio occurred in June.
Were there any arrests during the protests in San Antonio?
No, both the June and October protests in San Antonio were peaceful, and there were no arrests or clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.
Did the Governor deploy the National Guard for all of the protests?
Governor Abbott deployed the National Guard for the June protest, but not for the October protest.
As these demonstrations continue, it remains to be seen whether the scale or intensity of these protests will shift, or how authorities will respond in the future.
Keep reading