UPDATE: Massive crowds are flooding streets across the United States and globally in protest of President Donald Trump’s policies during the urgent “No Kings” rallies. Events began today, July 15, 2023, with organizers predicting participation from millions at more than 2,700 events nationwide, including a significant demonstration near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, where he is spending the weekend.
Protesters are taking a stand against Trump’s administration, particularly focusing on issues like the crackdown on undocumented migrants and the controversial deployment of National Guard troops to cities like Los Angeles. Organizers report that crowds are expected to match the turnout seen during similar protests on Trump’s birthday on June 14, when massive demonstrations took place in the nation’s capital.
In New York City, hundreds gathered early, with demonstrators expressing their outrage. Stephanie, a 36-year-old hospital worker, declared, “This president is a disgrace and I hope there will be millions in the street today.” Los Angeles officials anticipate as many as 100,000 people will join the protests there.
Beyond major cities like Washington, D.C., Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco, protests are also occurring in small towns across all 50 states. Internationally, crowds gathered outside U.S. embassies in cities such as Berlin, Rome, and Paris, displaying signs condemning authoritarianism and supporting their American counterparts.
As the protests unfold, Trump’s response has been notably subdued. “They’re saying they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king,” he stated in an interview with Fox News, scheduled to air later today. Meanwhile, Republican leaders have dismissed the rallies, labeling them as “Hate America” events. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the protests as a gathering of “Marxists, Socialists, and Antifa advocates,” while Republican Tom Emmer referred to participants as the “terrorist wing” of the Democratic Party.
In anticipation of unrest, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has activated the National Guard and announced heightened police presence. He emphasized that while protestors have the right to free speech, any actions involving property destruction or violence will face strict consequences. Similarly, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has deployed National Guard and public safety personnel to Austin to manage the expected protests.
Democratic leaders are rallying support for the protestors. Senator Chuck Schumer urged Americans to voice their opinions, stating, “Do not let Donald Trump and Republicans intimidate you into silence. Speak out, use your voice, and exercise your right to free speech.”
As the situation develops, the world is watching how these protests will unfold and what impact they may have on the political landscape in the U.S. Stay tuned for live updates as this story continues to evolve.
