MINNEAPOLIS — Massive crowds protested against US President Donald Trump across the country on Saturday, voicing opposition to what they describe as his authoritarian leadership, strict immigration policies, and the war with Iran.
The demonstrations, organized under the grassroots “No Kings” movement, mark the third nationwide wave of protests against Trump since the start of his second term in January 2025. Organizers expect millions to participate in rallies in major cities and smaller towns alike, addressing issues from immigration raids and rising costs to military actions abroad.
In New York City, tens of thousands gathered, joined by Robert De Niro, who called Trump “an existential threat to our freedoms and security.” Protests also took place from Atlanta to San Diego, with Alaskans joining later in the day.
“No country can govern without the consent of the people,” said military veteran Marc McCaughey in Atlanta, where thousands turned out. “We’re out here because we feel that the Constitution is under threat in a multitude of different ways. Things aren’t normal. They aren’t okay.”
In Washington, D.C., thousands marched on the National Mall carrying banners reading “Trump Must Go Now!” and “Fight Fascism.” Retiree Robert Pavosevich told AFP, “He keeps lying and lying and lying and lying, and no one says anything. So it’s a terrible situation we’re in.” Trump spent the weekend in Florida.
The movement has also spread internationally, with rallies in European cities including Amsterdam, Madrid, and Rome, where around 20,000 participants marched under heavy police supervision.
The first nationwide “No Kings” protest took place in June 2025, Trump’s 79th birthday, coinciding with a military parade in Washington. The second, in October 2025, drew an estimated seven million participants. Organizers aim to surpass those numbers this weekend as Trump’s approval rating dips below 40% ahead of November midterm elections.
Critics of Trump highlight his reliance on executive orders, the Justice Department’s use against opponents, fossil fuel advocacy, climate change denial, and reductions in racial and gender diversity programs. They also cite his increasing militarization of domestic law enforcement and foreign policy aggression.
In Minnesota, legendary musician Bruce Springsteen performed his newly written protest song “Streets of Minneapolis” in St. Paul, honoring Renee Good and Alex Pretti, two Americans killed during January protests against Trump’s immigration enforcement.
“Their bravery, their sacrifice and their names will not be forgotten,” Springsteen said before performing.
The “No Kings” movement, which began in 2025 as a single day of protest, has grown into a national resistance network. Organizers report that two-thirds of Saturday’s participants come from suburban or rural areas, expanding the reach of the movement beyond traditional urban Democratic strongholds.
