As Trump’s military parade approaches, protests under the 'No Kings' banner are set to dominate the weekend across the U.S.
Topics covered
In an unprecedented show of dissent, protests are expected to erupt in all 50 states this weekend as part of the ‘No Kings’ movement against President Trump and his administration’s controversial policies. With over 2,000 demonstrations planned, local law enforcement is set to ensure the safety of participants assembling peacefully.
Military presence and local tensions
Los Angeles is already feeling the heat. On Friday, 200 U.S. Marines arrived as part of a battalion, joining National Guard troops who have been deployed in direct response to the mounting protests. They began their patrols around the Wilshire Federal Building, a focal point for the demonstrations.
Just before this, a significant ruling came down from the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, allowing Trump to maintain temporary control over the National Guard, much to the chagrin of California Governor Gavin Newsom. The court’s decision follows a previous ruling by Judge Charles Breyer, who deemed Trump’s actions illegal and a violation of the Tenth Amendment, which protects state powers.
Protests linked to ICE raids
These protests coincide with the president’s birthday parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Demonstrators are rallying against the ongoing workplace raids and mass deportation efforts by ICE that have created a climate of fear among immigrant communities.
In Chicago, protesters took to the streets with chants like, “Get up, get down, Chicago is an immigrant town.” Among them was Rick Lucas, a nurse from Ohio who expressed deep concerns about ICE disrupting patient care at his hospital. “It’s terrifying,” he said, highlighting the real fear many feel as ICE operations intensify.
Escalating tensions and political fallout
In Los Angeles, the situation escalated when Christian Damien Cerna-Camacho was accused of assaulting a federal officer during an immigration protest, allegedly stating he had firearms and would use them against law enforcement. His initial court appearance drew attention, especially with his family in attendance, and he was denied bail.
California Governor Newsom has publicly condemned Trump’s use of National Guard troops, branding it as a dangerous abuse of power. He pointed to the deployment as a political move, claiming that Trump is using soldiers as props. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security criticized Mayor Karen Bass for her claims that ICE was aggressively pursuing individuals in vulnerable settings, labeling her statements as “blatantly false.”
Voices of dissent and calls for reform
Celebrity voices are also weighing in. Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger urged for cooperation between state and federal governments, emphasizing the need for bipartisan support in tackling immigration reform. “If there’s a will, there’s a way,” he remarked, calling for a united front to address these pressing issues.
The upcoming protests promise to be significant, representing a culmination of frustration and resistance against policies that many see as harmful. With the military parade set against the backdrop of these protests, the tension is palpable, leaving many to wonder what the weekend will hold.
