On October 18, 2025, cities across the United States and parts of Europe witnessed a sweeping wave of “No Kings” protests—organized in opposition to President Donald Trump’s executive policies and what demonstrators described as a drift toward authoritarianism. These rallies marked the second major mobilization under the “No Kings” banner, a movement that first emerged in early 2024 following controversial executive orders on immigration enforcement, surveillance expansion, and federal control over state-level healthcare programs. The phrase “No Kings” was coined by organizers to evoke the founding principles of American democracy and to reject what they saw as the consolidation of unchecked presidential power. Protesters gathered to affirm their belief that democracy must be participatory, accountable, and free from authoritarian influence.

The October 2025 protests were overwhelmingly peaceful. Law enforcement agencies in cities such as Denver, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. reported no arrests and praised organizers for maintaining order. While isolated clashes occurred in Portland, Oregon—where police deployed tear gas during a confrontation with anti-immigration enforcement demonstrators—these incidents were not representative of the broader movement. Most rallies featured families, students, retirees, union members, and faith leaders carrying signs with slogans like “Democracy Not Dictatorship,” “Power to the People,” and “No Kings in the Rockies.” Organizers emphasized nonviolence as a core principle, and the tone across most locations was one of solemn defiance and civic pride.

The protests were coordinated by a coalition of progressive organizations, including the 50501 Movement, ACLU, Indivisible, Democratic Socialists of America, American Federation of Teachers, Social Security Works, Communications Workers of America, Party for Socialism and Liberation, Public Citizen, MoveOn, Third Act Movement, and Democrats Abroad. These groups represent a wide spectrum of civil rights, labor, environmental, and democratic reform interests. Their shared goal was to highlight what they view as threats to democratic institutions and to demand accountability from elected officials. Organizers stressed that the protests were not affiliated with Antifa or any extremist groups, and there is no credible evidence of pro-Hamas involvement. Conservative commentators who labeled the rallies as “hate America” events were countered by widespread documentation of peaceful conduct and inclusive messaging.

In Colorado Springs, the local turnout was strong and spirited. Approximately 2,300 people gathered at Acacia Park in the downtown area, where local teachers and veterans led opening remarks. Youth participants read poetry on themes of democracy and justice, and signs such as “Liberty Is Local” and “No Kings in the Rockies” reflected the community’s unique voice. No arrests or incidents were reported, and the event maintained a family-friendly atmosphere throughout. Maria Jensen, a retired Air Force officer and community organizer, spoke to the crowd: “We’re here because democracy is worth defending—not just in Washington, but right here in Colorado Springs.”

For organizers, the importance of protest lies in its power to awaken civic engagement and to remind elected leaders that the people are watching. As one national coordinator put it, “We protest not because we hate our country, but because we love it enough to demand better.” The “No Kings” movement continues to grow, fueled by a belief that democracy must be defended not only at the ballot box but also in the public square.