UPDATE: The No Kings movement has launched its second wave of protests across Northwest Arkansas today, October 18, amidst heavy thunderstorms. This grassroots group is rallying against what it perceives as authoritarian actions by President Donald Trump, urging citizens to reclaim power for the people.
The movement’s website states, “On October 18, millions of us are rising again to show the world: America has no kings.” In a response to the protests, President Trump told Fox News yesterday, “They say they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king.”
Protests are not just limited to Arkansas; reports indicate that over 2,600 rallies are taking place across the United States, including major cities like Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago. In Arkansas, protests are happening in four key locations:
– Bentonville: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
– Fayetteville: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
– Fort Smith: 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
– Rogers: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
At the protests in Fayetteville and Rogers, participants carried signs addressing critical issues such as immigration, healthcare, and the ongoing Hamas conflict. Inflatable costumes were also visible, reflecting a trend seen in similar protests across the nation.
Lisa Childs, co-leader of Indivisible NWA, which organized the Rogers protest, emphasized the group’s mission: “Our goal is to ensure the government that is of, by, and for the people persists.” Attendee Caitlyn Oxford, chair of the Washington County Democrats, echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s about all the people in the United States that deserve to be cared for and deserve a chance at the American Dream.”
Like the previous protests held in June, today’s events in Rogers and Fayetteville have reportedly remained peaceful, drawing hundreds of passionate attendees.
The No Kings movement is also planning a virtual event on Tuesday, October 21, from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern, where participants will discuss the latest protests and outline future activities, according to the group’s official website.
As this story develops, the impact of the No Kings movement continues to resonate with citizens across the nation. Stay tuned for further updates on this pivotal moment in American civic engagement.
