AUSTIN, Texas — Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Austin as part of the second national “No Kings” protest, voicing criticism against the Trump administration and authoritarianism. The peaceful demonstration saw no arrests or incidents, according to Austin police.
“I was at the first No Kings, and there was not the energy. This is already just like breathtaking to me,” Austinite Gary Meyer said.
Organizers reported that 5,000 people had RSVP’d, but they believe thousands more participated.
“We want a country where people can peacefully assemble, express their opinions, live together, and make a better country. A more perfect union,” Austinite John Rati said.
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The protest began with a rally at the Capitol, where speakers, including Austin-area Congressmen Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar, urged the crowd to continue fighting for democracy.
“No hero is coming to save us. We are going to save ourselves. That’s how we do things in a democracy,” said Casar.
The march proceeded through downtown to Auditorium Shores, with participants denouncing the Trump administration and authoritarianism. Ahead of the rally, Gov. Greg Abbott called in the Texas Department of Public Safety and the National Guard, stating on social media, “Texas will not tolerate chaos.”
While the Texas National Guard was not visible, DPS troopers conducted security checks at the Capitol gates. Meanwhile, some Republican officials criticized the movement. U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson referred to it as “the hate America rally,” questioning how anyone could refute that description.