By News Editor 
On October 18, the “No Kings” protests took place across the United States, with demonstrators rallying against perceived authoritarianism and political corruption, particularly from the Trump administration. Despite claims that the protests attracted over seven million participants nationwide, major news outlets have been criticized for downplaying the magnitude of these events.
Senator Chris Van Hollen, among notable public figures present at the demonstrations, expressed support for the movement. Meanwhile, participants boasted a variety of creative signs and accessories, ranging from inflatable animals to American flags, underscoring the organizers’ goal to foster an inclusive atmosphere while pushing back against Trumpian politics. A participant from Santa Rosa, California, noted that attendance at the latest No Kings event surpassed previous rallies, indicating growing discontent. “It is pretty clear that October 18 brought out more people than No Kings in June,” they remarked, suggesting that the latest gathering was one of the largest protests in U.S. history.0
On social media, supporters were vocal about their frustrations with mainstream media coverage, accusing networks like NBC of minimizing the protests’ significance. “The fear of offending Dear Leader remains a real factor at the corporate level,” one post noted, referencing how the protests were relegated to an afterthought in current discussions.
The No Kings movement’s supporters, however, argue that it is more than just a reaction to Trump; it’s a push for broader democratic values and civil rights. With participants ranging from grassroots activists to retired healthcare workers, the movement appears to be galvanizing a wide demographic across various political spectrums. As the protests concluded, further events were scheduled to discuss the future direction of the No Kings initiative. “What’s next? Do we wait for another stupid Chuck Schumer fundraising email? Come on, Antifa. Organize a Counter-Coup,” one participant encouraged, underscoring the unrest felt among certain activists. While many Americans participate in the No Kings protests, the path forward for the movement remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about strategies and goals continuing to ignite discussions in both political and social spheres.