Republican governors in several U.S. states have activated National Guard troops in preparation for nationwide ‘No Kings’ protests scheduled for Saturday, which organizers say will challenge President Trump’s policies on immigration and other issues. The protests, planned at over 2,500 locations, are expected to draw large crowds similar to previous demonstrations in June.
In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott directed the state’s National Guard to deploy in Austin, citing a ‘planned antifa-linked demonstration’ and emphasizing the need to ensure public safety and prevent violence or property damage. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has also activated the Virginia National Guard, with other states placing troops on standby as a precautionary measure. The moves come amid heightened political tensions and concerns over potential disruptions.
The ‘No Kings’ protests are organized by groups opposing what they describe as Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, including aggressive immigration enforcement, threats to overtake elections, and cuts to health care, environmental protections, and education. Organizers assert that the protests are a peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights, with their website stating, ‘In America, we don’t have kings and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty.’ They report that over five million people participated in similar protests in June, which were largely peaceful.
Trump allies and some Republicans have accused the protesters of being associated with the far-left Antifa movement, which the Trump administration designated as a terrorist organization last month. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy claimed earlier this week that the protests are linked to antifascism, adding to the political rhetoric. However, organizers deny any formal connection to Antifa and stress their focus on civil disobedience and democratic principles.
Democrats and local officials have criticized the activation of the National Guard as an overreach. Texas Democratic Party Chair Kendall Scudder called it an attempt to intimidate peaceful protesters and a move from ‘Trump’s authoritarian playbook.’ Austin Mayor Kirk Watson clarified that the National Guard would not be on the streets unless there is an emergency need, and he condemned both the militarization of public spaces and any potential violence, urging respect for peaceful assembly.
Previous ‘No Kings’ protests in June saw minimal incidents, with authorities in states like Texas deploying thousands of National Guard members to maintain order. In a notable incident, Trump deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles without California Governor Gavin Newsom’s consent, leading to a federal court ruling that the president overstepped his authority by using federal military forces for domestic matters. This history informs current preparations and legal considerations.
The upcoming protests underscore deep political divisions in the U.S., raising questions about free speech, public safety, and the appropriate use of military resources in civil contexts. As the weekend approaches, authorities are monitoring situations closely, with implications for future protest dynamics and government responses to dissent.