So I know this is another political post so feel free to skip it, but I want to frame a conversation based on yesterdays events.
In one of the largest coordinated demonstrations in modern American history, millions of protesters flooded the streets of major cities across the United States on Saturday, rallying under the banner of “No Kings.” The nationwide protests, spanning from New York and Washington D.C. to Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago, were aimed squarely at President Donald Trump’s sweeping use of executive power and what critics describe as a steady drift toward authoritarianism.
Organizers estimated that nearly seven million people took part nationwide, making the “No Kings” movement one of the largest peaceful protests since the Women’s March of 2017.
Dont be fools by what the Republicans have been saying it was a peaceful, but defiant display. In New York City, protesters packed Times Square and surrounding streets, chanting “This is what democracy looks like” as helicopters hovered overhead. Many carried hand-painted signs reading “Democracy, Not Monarchy” and “The Constitution Is Not Optional.” The famous “Trump Baby Blimp” floated once again above the crowds, a now-familiar symbol of public defiance against the former president.Despite the heavy police presence and the National Guard being placed on standby in several states, the day remained largely peaceful. The NYPD reported no protest-related arrests, crediting both demonstrators and officers for maintaining calm. Protesters said they saw troubling parallels between Trump’s actions and the rise of authoritarian regimes in Europe during the 20th century. I feel it as I'd argue we cannot count on the Supreme Court or Congress right now. All branches of government feel captured. So I was proud to see such action out there fighting for our country. If you don't know Trump has increasingly relied on executive orders since returning to the White House in January, bypassing Congress to restructure federal agencies, override state authority, and direct the deployment of National Guard troops to American cities. His administration has also moved to prosecute political opponents which is dangerously unconstitutional. Trump has rejected those criticisms.
The protests drew widespread support from Democratic lawmakers. In Washington D.C., Senator Bernie Sanders delivered a fiery speech to thousands: “We’re not here because we hate America. We’re here because we love America. Republican officials, however, accused organizers of being linked to Antifa and framed the demonstrations as “anti-American.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin both activated their state National Guards ahead of the rallies. I don't know about you, but sending soldiers to suppress peaceful protests is what kings and dictators do, so Abbott just proved he’s part of the problem. The contrast between our political parties responses is very telling...
To prove the point even further the protests resonated beyond U.S. borders. Demonstrations in Berlin, Madrid, Rome, London, and Toronto drew thousands in solidarity, with many waving U.S. flags and signs reading “Hands Off Democracy” and “We Stand With America.” I'd like to think people see how dangerous the first few months of this administration has really been to democracy. How ever despite the criticism, Trump’s base remains loyal, viewing his moves as a necessary reassertion of “strong leadership” in turbulent times.
I'd love to have a civil discourse for those who still support Trump. Feel free to give me why and what polices that keep your support. I'd also be intrested to see if there is anyhting he could do that would get you to stop supporting him.