Far-Right Groups Hype Violence Ahead of ‘No Kings’ Day Protests

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Far-right groups are expressing concerns about potential violence in anticipation of the “No Kings” Day demonstrations scheduled for Saturday, which are expected to draw millions of protesters across the country. In a Telegram channel associated with Proud Boys, users have shared messages advocating violence, one stating, “Shoot a couple; the rest will go home. I promise,” alongside an image from the film The Highwaymen.

Jon Lewis, a research fellow at the George Washington University’s Program on Extremism, emphasized the danger of these messages, suggesting they could motivate individuals to act violently at the protests. “These types of messages can lead someone to get off the couch, pick up a gun, and go out to one of these cities,” Lewis stated.

The tensions have been exacerbated by former President Donald Trump‘s actions, including pardoning leaders of far-right paramilitary groups involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Enrique Tarrio, the leader of the Proud Boys, was recently released from prison and has since vowed to take action against the government.

In response to their treatment, a coalition of Proud Boys leaders has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the federal government, claiming their constitutional rights were violated due to their arrests and other charges.

This weekend’s demonstrations are a direct response to a planned military parade marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which also coincides with Trump’s birthday. Rallies opposing Trump’s agenda are scheduled at approximately 2,000 locations nationwide.

Trump has previously warned that any protesters at his parade would face “very heavy force.” Despite his administration’s efforts to curb protests against him, approval ratings reflect dissatisfaction with his handling of civil unrest. Recent polls indicate that a significant majority of Americans disapprove of Trump’s actions during protests.

As the protests approach, the potential for conflict remains high, especially given the recent rhetoric of far-right groups and law enforcement’s heightened vigilance.