‘No Kings’ protests spread across the US ahead of midterm elections

On October 17, 2026, 3,000 "No Kings" events took place across the U.S., focusing on early voting ahead of the midterm elections. Organized by a coalition opposing President Donald Trump and his administration, these nonpartisan efforts aimed to mobilize voters rather than protest. While organizers emphasized voter turnout, some local activists were reportedly engaging in highly partisan activities, potentially violating rules set forth by national leaders. Despite warnings from high-level coordinators, grassroots participants continued to push for Democratic support. The events coincided with concerns about voting restrictions imposed by Republican-dominated state legislatures and came amid fears that the Trump administration might attempt to undermine election results if Republicans lose control of Congress.