ORLANDO, Fla. – Hundreds of people gathered outside Orlando City Hall on Saturday morning, chanting, waving homemade signs and calling for what they described as a “stand for democracy.”
The event marked the latest in a series of “No Kings” protests — a movement that has steadily grown in size and passion since earlier this year.
In Central Florida, at least 18 No Kings rallies are expected from Palm Coast to Poinciana, and of course, in Orlando. They’re among 2,500 expected protests nationwide.
“I was not going to miss the protest. I’ve been to every protest since January,” one demonstrator said.
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Protesters of all ages filled the downtown streets, some saying they were motivated by fear for the country’s future.
“We are literally in the middle of a fascist government, authoritarian takeover. And if we don’t stand up now, things are going to get worse,” a protester said.
Others shared that the rally was their first act of public dissent in decades.
“The last time I protested was 54 years ago against the Vietnam War,” another demonstrator said. “I felt like I just couldn’t stay home and sit still any longer.”
Among those attending were military veterans, who said speaking out was part of their duty.
“I’ve never been to a protest before,” one veteran said. “I’m just out here to support dissent against what’s going on right now in our country.”
“I think it’s the American not only right, but duty to stand up for your country and the people in your country, whether they’re citizens or not,” another added.
Orlando police officers maintained a visible presence throughout the event, monitoring crowds and ensuring safety. Authorities reported the demonstration remained peaceful.
Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini criticized what he called the movement’s “vulgar rhetoric.”
“Everybody has a right to protest, but I think their protests are extremely vulgar,” Sabatini said. “Calling ICE the new Gestapo is completely wrong.”
Sabatini added that he believes the movement’s momentum stems more from anger toward President Donald Trump than from constructive goals.
“I think they’re completely incoherent,” he said. “They know they don’t like Trump, but I don’t know if you can build a political party on just hating one person.”
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