Frustration over President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration policies, the deployment of ICE and National Guard forces, shifting trade tariffs, and what critics call an alarming consolidation of power has once again sparked another wave of nationwide protests.
On Saturday, October 18, more than 2,500 “No Kings” demonstrations are planned across the United States —including over 80 in Florida, with seven locations in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Fernandina Beach — aimed at defending democratic institutions and pushing back against what organizers describe as authoritarian overreach.
What are the “No Kings” protests, and why are they happening again?
On Saturday, October 18, thousands of people across the country are expected to participate in coordinated protests known as the “No Kings” Day of Action—a nationwide movement pushing back against what organizers call the growing authoritarianism of President Donald Trump’s administration.
The protests are a response to a wide range of concerns, including:
Organizers say these actions undermine democratic institutions and concentrate power in the executive branch — hence the name “No Kings.”
When was the first ‘No Kings’ protest?
The first “No Kings” protest took place on June 14, 2025, coinciding with President Trump’s birthday and a military parade marking the Army’s 250th anniversary. Organizers say that the event drew over 5 million participants at more than 2,100 events nationwide, making it one of the largest mass protests in U.S. history.
According to Carol Brady of the Beaches Activists Movement, “Once again, we are calling on our neighbors to unite in defense of our democracy and send a clear message to those in power: In America, we will not be governed by kings or dictators.”
What to expect on October 18 and where are the ‘No Kings’ protests in Jacksonville, FL?
More than 2,500 “No Kings” protests are scheduled across the U.S., including over 80 events in Florida alone. In Northeast Florida, a full day of marches, rallies, and caravans is planned in cities including Jacksonville, Neptune Beach, St. Augustine, Orange Park, and others.
Here are some of the key events:
Where are the ‘No Kings’ protests in St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach?
According to a press release by the No Kings organization, carpools and vehicle caravans are being organized from neighborhoods across Jacksonville, including Riverside, Mandarin, the Beaches and the Northside.
What are Florida’s laws on protests?
Protesting is protected in the United States by the First Amendment, provided streets and government buildings are not blocked, but Florida also restricts protests within 500 feet of a residence, cemetery, funeral home, house of worship, or other location when a funeral or burial has just occurred, will occur soon, or is occurring.
Florida also comes down hard on anything perceived as rioting, with penalties against anyone involved in the protest where it occurred..
And, as of this year, Florida has the HALO Law which requires everyone to move 25 feet away from a first responder, including law enforcement, if asked to. The law is intended to protect first responders, but critics worry that it will prevent anyone from shooting video or pictures of ICE arrests or police brutality.
The “No Kings” website tells participants not to bring any weapons, to always act in accordance with local laws, and to de-escalate any potential confrontation with law enforcement or anti-protesters.
Where can I find a ‘No Kings’ protest near me in Florida?
According to the No King website, Florida events are currently planned in:
Contributor: C.A Bridges
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: ‘No Kings’ anti-Trump protests are coming back. Where they’ll be in Jacksonville
Reporting by Doris Alvarez Cea, Jacksonville Florida Times-Union / Florida Times-Union
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
