Massive Protests Against Trump Erupt Across the U.S. on June 14, 2025

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Demonstrations erupted in cities and towns across the United States on Saturday as millions took to the streets to protest President Donald Trump. The events, known as the “No Kings” marches, were held in conjunction with a military parade in Washington, D.C., marking the Army’s 250th anniversary.

According to organizers, the protests aimed to promote democratic values and oppose Trump’s immigration policies and perceived authoritarianism. Despite warnings from state governors, crowds gathered peacefully in cities like New York, Denver, Austin, and Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, tensions flared after a peaceful rally turned chaotic. Police used tear gas and crowd-control measures to disperse protesters near a federal building. “It was a total 100% overreaction. We weren’t doing anything but standing around chanting peaceful protest,” said Samantha Edgerton, a bartender among the demonstrators.

In Washington, D.C., about 200 protesters gathered near Logan Circle, chanting “Trump must go now!” and responding to the parade with cheers and a large puppet depicting Trump as a king. Meanwhile, in the streets of Philadelphia, protests filled Love Park, where speeches echoed calls for unity and systemic change.

Karen Van Trieste, a nurse from Maryland, expressed her urge to defend democracy, saying, “I just feel like we need to defend our democracy.” Protesters waved American flags and showcased diverse messages, some reading “Fight Oligarchy” and “Deport the Mini-Mussolinis”.

Not everyone felt safe participating; some protesters turned off their phones, fearing repercussions for speaking against the administration. Tony Cropper, who attended a protest in Jackson, said, “A lot of stuff that’s going on now is targeting people of color.”

The protests continued despite the backdrop of violence in Minnesota, where a state lawmaker and her spouse were shot dead. Organizers urged attendees to avoid presence in the state to allow law enforcement to control the situation.

“Today, across red states and blue, rural towns and major cities, Americans stood in peaceful unity and made it clear: we don’t do kings,” stated the No Kings Coalition. Demonstrators engaged in vibrant displays of music and art, including a giant Mexican flag and caricatures of Trump.

The atmosphere was mostly jovial, with people sharing food and joyfully marching side by side, even as police began clearing certain areas amid growing unrest. The day ended with thousands still engaged in festivities, highlighting the importance of collective expression out of concern for their nation’s future.