‘No Kings’ October 17 protest: 2,500 rallies, marches, and parties in all 50 states urge Americans to vote early in midterm election

The "No Kings" movement, initially a populist protest against the Trump administration, has evolved into a get-out-the-vote campaign ahead of the U.S. midterm elections on November 3. On Saturday, October 17, over 2,500 events across all 50 states are planned, with a focus on ensuring free and fair elections. These events include protests, neighborhood block parties, cookouts, marches, rallies, and voter fairs.

Major cities involved in the planning include San Francisco, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles, among others. The coalition of organizations behind the events includes the ACLU, American Federation of Teachers, Black Voters Matter Fund, Indivisible, League of Women Voters, MoveOn, Public Citizen, State Voices, and Voto Latino.

Joel Payne, MoveOn's chief communications officer, emphasizes that early and record turnout is crucial in safeguarding the integrity of the election. The protests, which have drawn millions since President Trump's second term began, will now focus on voter engagement, including walks to polling stations, voter planning drives, and election defense workshops.

The American Civil Liberties Union has identified potential scenarios for election interference and is prepared to take legal action to protect voting rights. Organizers are determined to ensure every American exercises their right to vote, regardless of threats or obstacles.