Anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ Rallies Held Across US, More Than 3,000 Events Planned Ahead of Midterm Elections

*Washington, October 19, 2026*

Demonstrators opposing US President Donald Trump’s policies took to the streets in cities and communities across the United States on Saturday, October 17, as part of the “No Kings” protest movement. The demonstrations also sought to encourage voters to cast their ballots ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

According to the Associated Press (AP), the rallies were part of a broader protest movement that has challenged Trump’s presidency and policies. Organisers planned more than 3,000 events nationwide, with demonstrations reported in several major cities, including New York, Washington and Atlanta.

The slogan “No Kings” reflects the movement’s central message that the United States should be governed through constitutional and democratic institutions rather than concentrated personal power. Critics of Trump have accused his administration of centralising executive authority, pursuing restrictive immigration policies and threatening democratic institutions.

These allegations represent the position of the administration’s critics. Organisers have also presented the latest demonstrations as a nonpartisan effort to encourage voter participation ahead of the midterm elections.

The protests took place as the United States prepared for the November 3 elections, in which all seats in the House of Representatives and approximately one-third of the Senate seats are up for election. The outcome will determine the balance of power in Congress and influence the administration’s ability to advance its legislative agenda.

Political tensions have also intensified over election procedures. According to reports, the Trump administration has pursued legal action concerning the counting of certain mail-in ballots in California, while Democratic senators have raised concerns about potential federal actions involving ballots and election materials before the final certification of election results.

A report published by Deutsche Welle (DW) on October 18, drawing on information from AP and AFP, also highlighted the scale of the planned “No Kings” demonstrations and their role in mobilising voters before the midterm elections.

Available reports confirm widespread protest activity and plans for thousands of events.