A small but visible bloc of Republican and right-leaning voters broke ranks on Saturday, joining the nationwide “No kings” protests aimed at President Donald Trump’s use of power. In multiple cities, self-described lifelong Republicans marched alongside independents and Democrats, hoisting signs that read “No kings” and “Conservative for the Constitution,” saying they oppose what they view as an authoritarian drift. Some attendees told reporters they were Republicans disillusioned with their party’s direction but motivated to defend democratic norms.
Protest in front of Los Angeles City Hall and Grand Park
The GOP dissent came amid one of the largest protest mobilizations in recent years, with thousands packing iconic locations from Times Square to Pennsylvania Avenue in generally peaceful events featuring music, costumes, and giant Constitution banners. Organizers staged more than 2,500–2,700 local actions across all 50 states.
Republican leaders, meanwhile, largely dismissed the rallies—some calling them “hate America” events—while Trump responded that “I’m not a king,” a remark that did little to blunt the day’s signature chant: “No kings.”
Analysts said participation from disaffected Republicans underscores a widening intraparty split over Trump’s leadership style, even as most top GOP officials avoided directly criticizing the president during the demonstrations.
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