Capitol News

This weekend, thousands of Michigan residents participated in "No Kings" rallies held across the state, voicing opposition to the Republican agenda and expressing concerns about the direction of national policies. The demonstrations took place in locations ranging from the Upper Peninsula to Grand Rapids and Detroit, drawing diverse crowds including veterans, seniors, and teenagers.

The protests were part of a larger nationwide movement involving nearly seven million participants. Demonstrators criticized what they described as ongoing attacks on voting rights, health care access, and support for working families. Many carried signs with messages such as “No Kings in America” and “I Dissent,” signaling their disapproval of former President Donald Trump and Republicans who support his policies.

Local media outlets reported significant turnout at events throughout Michigan. In Traverse City, a rally drew a large crowd focused on unity and constitutional values. In Detroit, protesters gathered after recent disputes between Democratic and Republican officials.

A statement from Hertel read: “Today’s marches are a peaceful demonstration of patriotism in the face of a Republican Party that is more interested in Trump’s power grabs and passing tax cuts for billionaires than serving the American people.”

MLive covered one event where demonstrators chanted slogans like “Whose streets? Our streets!” as they marched against former President Trump.

One participant commented: “It feels like so much of Congress is not willing to think for themselves because they’re afraid to disagree with Trump,” she said. “It’s really terrifying that way that any Republican who wants a political career is like, ‘We have to do whatever he says.’”

According to reports, close to 100 separate "No Kings" demonstrations took place statewide on Saturday, October 18. These gatherings included chants, cheers, honking horns, and expressions of frustration directed at both national leadership and local congressional representatives such as John James and Mike Rogers.