No Kings protest: Thousands expected at New Orleans rally
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No Kings protest organizers expect thousands to gather in New Orleans in an event Republican lawmakers decry as "a hate America rally."
Why it matters: The latest round of protests comes amid growing frustration about the ongoing government shutdown and widespread opposition to President Trump's military crackdown on Democratic-led cities across America.
The big picture: New Orleans is one of 10 anchor cities nationally. That means the city's organizers get additional event and security guidance from national partners.
- The rally is from 3:30 to 5:30pm Saturday between North Galvez and North Prieur streets on the Lafitte Greenway. Kermit Ruffins will perform.
- More events are planned in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Hammond, Leesville, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, Ruston and Shreveport.
Zoom out: More than 2,500 events are planned across all 50 states as of Thursday, organizers said.
- "Together, millions will send a clear and unmistakable message: we are a nation of equals, and our country will not be ruled by fear or force," the national organizers said.
- Participating groups include the American Civil Liberties Union, American Federation of Teachers, Human Rights Campaign, Indivisible and MoveOn.
The other side: The recurring movement against the Trump administration has garnered sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers who say Democrats are protesting as a ploy during the government shutdown.
- Republican leadership, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), called the protest "a hate America rally."
Reality check: Johnson canceled a third week of House votes amid the ongoing shutdown.
Flashback: The first No Kings rally took place June 14 in response to a military parade Trump planned for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and the president's 79th birthday.
- More than 6,500 people attended the first rally in New Orleans, organizers say.
- The protests are part of a wider movement against the Trump administration, including Tesla Takedown in March, Hands Off! and 50501 in April, May Day, Free America on Independence Day and "Workers over Billionaires" on Labor Day.
Go deeper: More info about No Kings