As President Donald Trump marks his 79th birthday with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., millions of Americans are expected to take to the streets in opposition. Organized under the “No Kings” movement, more than 2,000 protests are planned across all 50 states to denounce authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics, and the increasing militarization of American democracy.
The protests coincide with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which the Trump administration is honoring with a high-profile $45 million military display featuring tanks, aircraft, and thousands of service members in the capital. However, the spotlight is being challenged by a powerful grassroots push for democracy and civil liberties.
National Guard Deployment Fuels Outrage
In Los Angeles, Trump has deployed the National Guard and Marines in response to growing unrest over controversial immigration sweeps. Protesters in cities like New York, Seattle, Austin, Las Vegas, and Chicago have also been rallying against mass deportations and the use of federal force against civilians. 
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signaled that more states could see National Guard deployments. In advance of the protests, Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated his state’s Guard, while Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe did the same, citing “recent instances of civil unrest.”
“We respect the right to peacefully protest, but we will not tolerate violence,” Kehoe stated.
A Massive Turnout Expected
Indivisible, the organization behind the “No Kings” movement, estimates the turnout could surpass the 3.5 million who joined the April ‘Hands Off!’ protests, potentially setting a new record for civic demonstrations in the U.S.
Ezra Levin, co-executive director of Indivisible, told CNN: “No Kings is on track to exceed [April’s protests] by millions more. This is historic.”
To divert attention from the military parade in D.C., the largest protest will be held in Philadelphia, where 60,000 to 80,000 people are expected to rally at LOVE Park, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and Arch Street.
Other major demonstrations are planned in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, Phoenix, and Houston, with more than 200 protests slated across California alone.
Officials Brace for Unrest
Law enforcement agencies nationwide are preparing for the weekend’s demonstrations. New York Mayor Eric Adams assured citizens that peaceful protests are protected: “We want to keep all New Yorkers safe, whether protesting or going about your everyday life.”
In contrast, some officials have issued aggressive warnings. Florida’s Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey declared:
“If you throw a brick, a firebomb, or point a gun at one of our deputies, we will notify your family where to collect your remains.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis echoed the sentiment, defending drivers who hit protesters blocking roads if they feel threatened.
Meanwhile, protest leaders are emphasizing nonviolence, safety, and unity. Marshals trained by No Kings organizers have been instructed to deescalate tension, empathize, and avoid any physical confrontation with police.
Final Message: Democracy Over Dictatorship
The unified theme across the nation’s rallies is clear: America rejects authoritarianism. As Trump celebrates with tanks and military fanfare, the people’s message is equally strong:
“In America, we don’t do kings.”
