'No kings on Presidents Day' rings out from protests against Trump and Musk
Share and Follow


BOSTON (AP) — Protesters against President Donald Trump and his policies braved frigid temperatures in parts of the U.S. Monday, shouting “No kings on Presidents Day” in East Coast cities and attempting to enter the Arizona Statehouse to oppose a bill that would bolster fast-changing federal immigration enforcement.

The “No Kings” theme was orchestrated by the 50501 Movement, and marked the second set of protests criss-crossing the nation in less than two weeks. A similar nationwide event on Feb. 5 drew participants in dozens of cities. Both sets of rallies denounced Trump and billionaire adviser Elon Musk, the leader of Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency, an outside-government organization designed to slash federal spending.

Nearly 1,000 people marched in the snow from the Statehouse in Boston to City Hall, chanting “Elon Musk has got to go” and other slogans. The temperature was below freezing, with wind chills in the teens.

Boston protesters, some dressed in Revolutionary War-style clothing, carried signs saying such things as “This is a Coup” and “Cowards Bow to Trump, Patriots Stand Up.” One sign had a depiction of Uncle Sam saying “I Want You to Resist.”

“I thought it was important to be here on Presidents Day to demonstrate for what America stands for,” said Emily Manning, 55, a Boston engineer who came to the rally with her two teenage sons. “American values are not the values of the plutocracy or the limited few rich people.”

Organizers of Monday’s protests, which were focused on state capitals and major cities including Washington, D.C.; Orlando, Florida; and Seattle, said they were targeting “anti-democratic and illegal actions of the Trump administration and its plutocratic allies.”

One sign at the rally that attracted hundreds in the nation’s capital said, “Deport Musk Dethrone Trump.”

Many demonstrations were slated for cities where temperatures were well below freezing as a polar vortex worked its way across the country.

The rallies followed a series of Trump executive orders and came just days after layoffs across federal agencies as part of an effort to reduce the government workforce.

In Phoenix, hundreds of protestors gathered in front of the Capitol carrying signs reading “No Kings” and “Resist Fascism.” Security barred protesters from entering the building after a few tried to get inside. Demonstrators were seeking access to a state Senate committee hearing on legislation that would require law enforcement officers across the state to support federal immigration policy.

Protest organizer December Archer said her goal was to keep the event civil. She quickly came between someone trying to enter the Statehouse and a security guard who pushed the protestor back through the doorway.

“We’re trying to make sure everything stays civil and stays respectable because again, we’re here to make a statement not be the statement,” Archer said.

___

Associated Press writers Scott Bauer in Madison, Wisconsin; and Sejal Govindarao in Phoenix contributed to this report.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Suspect steals Bedford Park police squad car, US Postal Service truck, hits mother, 2 children in Bridgeview, officials say

Washington Middle School Teacher in Aurora Accused of Assaulting Former Student in Wheaton

A middle school teacher from Aurora is facing serious charges after being…
A person walks toward the entrance of the Capital Area Food Bank, Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Washington’s Economy Faces New Setback Amid Government Shutdown Crisis

WASHINGTON (AP) — As the longest government shutdown in history unfolds alongside…
Seattle mayor election results 2025

Results Announced for the 2025 St. Paul Mayoral Election

In the upcoming election on Tuesday, residents of St. Paul will have…

New Mexico Lawmakers Call for Investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s Mysterious Desert Ranch Activities

A remote desert ranch once owned by financier and convicted sex offender…
Iran-directed plot to assassinate Israel’s ambassador to Mexico thwarted, officials reveal

Foiled Assassination Plot: Iran-Directed Scheme Targeting Israel’s Ambassador in Mexico Uncovered

A chilling plan by Iran to assassinate Israel’s ambassador in Mexico has…
Fans accuse workers of seemingly hoarding viral Starbucks bear cup

Starbucks Bear Cup Controversy: Fans Claim Workers Are Stockpiling Popular Item

Starbucks’ latest merchandise release has stirred quite the commotion, with enthusiasts queuing…
Jack Schlossberg reportedly eyeing up bid for NYC congressional seat

Jack Schlossberg Considers NYC Congressional Run: Kennedy Legacy Eyes Political Future

John F. Kennedy’s legacy is poised to reignite in the political arena…
Hamas hands over another Israeli hostage's remains as Gaza ceasefire exchanges continue

Breaking: Hamas Releases Israeli Hostage Remains Amidst Ongoing Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

On Tuesday, Hamas handed over a coffin containing the remains of an…