On October eighteenth of this year, millions gathered across the country to rally for the second “No Kings” protest in 2025. Organized by a coalition made up of over 200 advocacy groups, the protests brought significant awareness to the issues that protesters have been pressing for years.
The first “No Kings” protests began this April, with June fourteenth being the official “No Kings Day.” The “No Kings” protests (also known as the “No Dictators” or “No Tyrants” protests) are a series of demonstrations against what organizers describe as authoritarian policies enacted by Donald Trump and what the organizers perceive as corruption in the Trump administration.
Protests were held in large cities and small towns across the country, and there were estimated to be over seven million attendees altogether. Protesters of all different demographics gathered to place their demands. Locally, Pennington and Hopewell streets welcomed dozens of political advocates.
Eight miles outside of Hopewell, Monument Drive in Princeton, New Jersey held upwards of 5,000 attendees. Thousands gathered beside main roads in Princeton and within Monument Park with signs and costumes.
Speakers such as Gen-Z environmental activism group Climate Revolution Action Network’s executive director Ben Dziobek made inspirational speeches that rang through Princeton’s streets.
I arrived at the rally in Princeton at 2:00 in the afternoon on that Saturday accompanied by a friend. The streets were crowded even before the protest began, with many supporters beginning to spread their support for the cause. After listening to the first speaker, I made my way to the sidewalk to display my sign to passers-by.
I was pleasantly surprised and impressed to see the turnout of protesters in Princeton. The largest demographic of those attending were older people of Caucasian descent, a group that is also associated with the other side of politics. I connected with many different protesters, giving and receiving helpful information to support one another in order to stay safe.
Although there was a hefty police presence in Princeton, there were no reports of any arrests made. Protesters stayed safely tucked on the sidewalk, displaying signs with catchy slogans and commonly unknown information regarding members of the current government.
Princeton, New Jersey consists of a very liberal climate. In Mercer County, 69.1% of the population voted Democratic in the last presidential election. Multiple people I know did not participate in the protests on Saturday with the belief that they would only be “preaching to the choir.”
Despite the liberal demographic of Mercer County and within New Jersey as a whole, it is still extremely important to get involved in local politics. Protesting prevents complacency within local governments. When elected officials are not pressured by activists, they can become complacent and fail to fully address marginalized communities. When pushed by protesters and advocates, officials are encouraged to take action. Protests are strong messages that show that the public is paying attention and calling for actions.
In addition, protests in areas such as Princeton amplify national movements. A large political protest in a liberal city brings awareness and social media attention to the cause that is being protested. These protests inspire similar action in other places, as well as force public discussion about important topics.
Protests help mobilize new stakeholders. Protests can reach new audiences, inspiring people who feel politically disengaged, or even previously disinterested, to get involved. Protests can provide solidarity and inspiration for those who are marginalized.
While protesting in cities like Princeton may seem ineffectual, the “No Kings” protest in Princeton was actually a very important display of political advocacy. In many places, it can be dangerous to participate in political protests. Such large protests in safer cities allow for unspoken voices to be heard in ways that will not force them to face the threat of harm or harassment.
It is important to stay involved in your community in whatever ways possible. There are many ways to speak up and speak out in New Jersey such as social media, involving yourself in protests, joining demonstrations within your school district, and many more. Stay involved, and stay informed.
