Thousands of people filled streets across the Tampa Bay region Saturday as part of a nationwide wave of demonstrations known as the “No Kings” protests, a movement that organizers say is aimed at calling out what they describe as authoritarian policies by President Donald Trump.
In Largo, protesters lined both sides of Bay Drive and Seminole Boulevard, many holding handmade signs and waving American flags. Participants said they came out to show solidarity and demand a return to what they called compassion and democratic values.
“We’ve got to bring care for humanity and our neighbors back. Love your neighbor,” Dan Eberts said.
The “No Kings” movement began earlier this year in response to concerns about presidential overreach, including Trump’s use of executive authority, deployment of troops to cities during civil unrest, and tougher immigration enforcement policies.
“America doesn’t need any kings. We need tolerance and diversity in everything that he’s trying to take away,” said Mikol Benjacob, who attended the rally with her young son. “To see how many people came out on a Saturday morning and are not just going to brunch but are coming out to say we don’t stand for this.”
Marine veteran Jim Gaines held a sign that read “Vet Against Fascism.” He said he felt compelled to protest because of his military oath.
“I’m just sick to death with what’s going on. With the way Trump is running this country and all his little cohorts,” Gaines said. “I’d love to see more vets out protesting because we are the ones that took an oath to defend the Constitution and he has just torn up the Constitution.”
Across the country, organizers say more than 2,500 rallies were planned in cities large and small, with several in the Tampa Bay area.
Among the demonstrators at the rally in Brandon, a lone Trump supporter drove laps around the rally in a pickup truck, drawing jeers from some in the crowd. But overall, participants described the atmosphere as peaceful.
“It’s people who love this country. It’s people who want to return to a country that is led by the people, not someone who is increasingly becoming more and more powerful outside the limits of the president as outlined in the Constitution,” said Penny Borgia, dressed as Lady Liberty.
In Sarasota, protesters assembled near the University Town Center mall, many voicing frustration over recent immigration enforcement actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“When people of different skin color start getting really scared even though they are born here, maybe Puerto Rican descent, they are scared to even go to work right now,” said Roselyn Kessler of Bradenton.
This was the second round of “No Kings” protests. The first took place June 14, drawing millions across the country. Organizers say Saturday’s turnout appeared even larger, reflecting what they describe as growing resistance to what they call “an erosion of democratic norms.”
