Seattle Center to host major "No Kings" protest
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No Kings protests against the Trump administration are expanding this weekend, with dozens planned in Seattle and Puget Sound.
Why it matters: The latest round of protests comes amid growing frustration about the ongoing government shutdown and opposition to President Trump's military deployment plans to Democratic-led cities across America.
State of play: The largest local event is expected to begin at noon at the Seattle Center.
The big picture: More than 2,500 events are planned across all 50 states, 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," their statement said.
- Participating groups include the American Civil Liberties Union, American Federation of Teachers, 50501, 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.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) called the movement a "hate America rally" and said they were being put on by "the pro-Hamas wing and the Antifa people."
Catch up quick: The first No Kings rally, part of a wider protest against the Trump administration, 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.