Thousands of protesters filled downtown Austin on Oct. 17, as part of the nationwide “No Kings” movement.
The group Hands Off Central Texas organized the event, which ran from 2 to 5:30 p.m.
A rally began at the Texas State Capitol at 2 p.m. before participants marched along Congress Avenue and ended at Auditorium Shores. Organizers estimated the crowd at 20,000 to 30,000. The final stop featured speakers, food trucks, and music.
Governor Greg Abbott deployed National Guard units as part of a security plan. Local police coordinated with state forces to manage the crowd and monitor the marches. Officials said they prepared for heavy turnout and potential disruptions.
The “No Kings” movement staged protests across several U.S. cities the same day in opposition to what organizers describe as authoritarian trends in government. Demonstration leaders in Austin emphasized peaceful assembly and adherence to public-safety rules.