HERMISTON, OR – On Saturday, October 18, 2025, communities across the United States, including Hermiston, Oregon, participated in a wave of nationwide “No Kings” protests. These demonstrations, organized by a broad coalition of progressive groups, aimed to voice strong opposition to the Trump administration policies and perceived authoritarian tendencies. Organizers emphasized the core message that America is a republic, not a monarchy, and that power ultimately resides with the people, making these “No Kings” protests a vital expression of democratic principles.
The ‘No Kings’ Movement: A National Call for Democracy and Against Government Overreach
The “No Kings” movement, building on similar large-scale rallies held earlier in the year, mobilized millions of Americans in an estimated 2,700 events across all 50 states. The simple yet powerful slogan served as a direct rebuke to what protesters described as President Trump’s increasing consolidation of power and disregard for democratic norms. Organizers, including groups like Indivisible, the 50501 movement, and the ACLU, framed the day as a crucial stand for democracy, civil liberties, and against perceived government overreach. These “No Kings” protests saw major rallies in cities like Washington D.C., New York, and Chicago, but also extended to smaller towns, underscoring a widespread sentiment of discontent and the importance of First Amendment rights.
Key Grievances Fueling the ‘No Kings’ Protests
Demonstrators voiced a range of specific concerns that fueled their participation in the “No Kings” protests. Prominent among these was the federal troop deployment, including masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials and the National Guard, into American cities. Protesters condemned the use of these forces, often against the wishes of local leaders, as an alarming escalation and a threat to civil liberties.
Concerns about the erosion of First Amendment rights were also central to the “No Kings” protests. Specifically, demonstrators denounced the “reckless mass deportation agenda” and what they described as the “weaponization of the Justice Department,” citing a perceived pattern of targeting political opponents and undermining due process. The ongoing government shutdown and its impact on federal services and workers added another layer of frustration for many, highlighting the negative consequences of certain Trump policies.
Hermiston and Oregon Respond to ‘No Kings’ Demonstrations
In Hermiston, well over 100 residents gathered on both sides of Highway 395, near Safeway and the old Rite Aid building, to participate in the “No Kings” demonstrations. This local turnout was part of a broader wave of action across Oregon, with more than 60 events planned statewide. These Oregon protests, including the Hermiston demonstrations, reflected a widespread desire among Oregonians to voice their opposition to the administration’s policies and to uphold democratic principles.
Political Pushback and Legal Challenges Against Trump Policies
The “No Kings” protests were met with criticism from some Republican leaders. House Speaker Mike Johnson, for example, labeled the demonstrations as “hate America” rallies, a characterization vehemently rejected by protest organizers who emphasized their commitment to peaceful, pro-democracy action and their dedication to exercising their First Amendment rights.
Amidst the widespread demonstrations, legal battles concerning the Trump administration’s actions were also ongoing. Federal judges had issued injunctions blocking the deployment of National Guard troops in cities like Chicago and Portland, citing constitutional concerns and a lack of evidence supporting the need for such deployments. These legal challenges highlighted the tension between federal authority and state sovereignty, as well as the broader debate over the limits of presidential power and the importance of preventing government overreach.
A Day of Dissent: The Significance of the ‘No Kings’ Protests
The “No Kings” protests of October 18, 2025, represented a significant national expression of dissent. From the streets of Hermiston to major metropolitan centers, hundreds of thousands, if not millions, gathered to assert their belief in democratic principles and to push back against Trump policies they viewed as detrimental to the nation’s foundations. This news event underscored the ongoing public debate about the direction of the country and the role of protest in a democratic society. The movement aimed not only to protest but also to connect frustrated citizens with local organizing efforts, fostering a sustained engagement in civic life across Oregon and beyond, reinforcing the power of political dissent.
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