News Summary
Demonstrators across the U.S. are mobilizing for the ‘No Kings’ protest against the Trump administration’s policies, with over 100,000 expected in D.C. Participants will gather near the Smithsonian before marching towards the National Archives. Local events will occur in Maryland and Virginia, supported by increased security measures. Organizers and participants argue these protests are vital for defending First Amendment rights and opposing perceived government overreach.
Washington, D.C.
Demonstrators are expected to protest the Trump administration in Washington, D.C., and other cities across the country this weekend, with over 100,000 participants anticipated to attend the “No Kings” demonstration along the National Mall on Saturday. The protest is scheduled to take place on October 18, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m.
Attendees will gather at Jefferson Drive by the Smithsonian Metro station before marching across 7th Street to the National Mall, concluding near the National Archives. D.C. police will provide information about rolling road closures on their social media pages in anticipation of the event. Additionally, road closures and parking restrictions will be in effect in downtown D.C. due to another event taking place that day, the Race for Every Child.
Local rallies are also set to occur in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, as well as Northern Virginia, with Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin having activated National Guard members for further security in the state. Ezra Levin, a protest organizer, has indicated that these demonstrations are a response to the Trump administration’s actions perceived as a crackdown on First Amendment rights. Key issues to be emphasized during the protests include immigration enforcement, the deployment of National Guard troops, and concerns over what participants describe as presidential overreach.
The upcoming demonstration is expected to mirror a previous protest that occurred in June of this year, which also drew large crowds. Organizers have stated that the protest will be nonviolent, aimed specifically at opposing policies enacted by the Trump administration. House Speaker Mike Johnson has characterized the protest as a “Hate America” rally, predicting the presence of various activist groups as the event unfolds.
Leah Greenberg, co-founder of Indivisible, highlighted the importance of defending the right to peaceful protest, asserting that the core message of the “No Kings” movement is that “America doesn’t have kings.” The movement aims to counter authoritarianism, support a politics focused on everyday people rather than billionaires, and address concerns regarding the militarization of democracy.
In total, nearly 2,700 events are scheduled across the country, with substantial participation expected in the District and surrounding areas. Local news outlets will provide live coverage of the protests, with broadcasts beginning early Saturday morning.
Event Details
- Date: October 18, 2025
- Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Meeting Point: Jefferson Drive by the Smithsonian Metro Station
- March Route: Across 7th Street to the National Mall, ending near the National Archives
Security Measures
With the anticipated influx of demonstrators, local authorities, including D.C. police and the National Guard, will be mobilized to ensure safety during the protests. Attendees are advised to stay informed about traffic advisories and road closures, which will be updated on various official channels.
Context of the Protests
The “No Kings” protests are seen as part of a broader national dialogue about governance, individual rights, and democratic values. As political tensions continue to rise, many citizens feel compelled to rally against perceived injustices and advocate for a more inclusive approach to democracy. The protests represent a significant avenue for expressing dissent and mobilizing for change within communities nationwide.
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Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
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