‘No Kings Day’ march brings protesters to the streets of D.C.

Written by: Dariana Guzman

People protest in front of the Congress building in Washington, D.C, at the No Kings protest on October 18, 2025 (Ashley Neyra).

More than seven million people across the country, including those in the District of Columbia, marched the streets to protest against the Trump administration on Oct. 18.

Carrying handmade signs, shouting chants, and playing their instruments, demonstrators voiced their opposition against the administration, demanding limitations of authority and expressing concerns over policies implemented under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Many express their anger towards issues regarding immigration detentions, federal cuts towards scientific research, and more.

“I’m out here today because I am very, very concerned about the dismantling of our Constitution and the rule of law in our country.” said Nancy Murray, watching the protest wind down on a bench as she waited for her husband.

Ahead of the march, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the demonstrations, referring to them as the “Hate America Rally.”

“I bet you, you’ll see pro-Hamas supporters. I bet you, you’ll see Antifa types. I bet you, you’ll see the Marxists in full display,” said Johnson. “The people who don't want to stand and defend the foundational truths of this republic.”

Protesters carrying various signs at the 'No Kings Day' protest (Ashley Neyra).

However, for many of the participants, showing up was an act of civil engagement—a reaffirmation of what they believe democracy should look like. To Jarrett Ferrier, it’s exactly what America was founded upon. 

“[I’m here] to represent what I feel is democracy, the way all Americans should appreciate it,” he said, brightly dressed as the Ronald McDonald clown.

The protests lasted for about two hours in D.C., but the energy of the crowd lingered much longer. With thousands showing up, a strong sense of solidarity and hope filled the air.

D.C. native Mackenzie Weise found that this is exactly the purpose of coming out to protest. 

“This is beautiful,” she said. “Coming out to big mass demonstrations like this unite people, remind you that you’re not alone in your different silos… It’s just empowering.”