Watch | Federal Agents Fire Tear Gas And Pepper Balls At ‘No Kings’ Protesters In Portland

Federal agents used tear gas and pepper balls outside an ICE detention center in Portland, Oregon, as millions took to the streets for the nationwide “No Kings” protests against President Donald Trump’s administration. Organizers estimated that nearly 7 million people joined demonstrations in more than 2,700 cities and towns across the country, calling it one of the largest single-day protests in US history.Massive Turnout In Major US CitiesLarge rallies were held in major cities including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Miami, and Los Angeles. In New York City’s Times Square, thousands gathered with signs reading “Democracy not Monarchy” and “The Constitution is not optional.” Protesters chanted “This is what democracy looks like,” as drums, cowbells, and noisemakers filled the air. Police said over 100,000 people participated across the five boroughs with no protest-related arrests.Protesters Voice Concern Over Authoritarian ShiftThe demonstrations, organized by the No Kings movement, were intended to be peaceful, emphasizing non-violence and unity. Many participants voiced concerns about what they described as Trump’s growing use of executive power, from deploying National Guard troops to cities, blocking funding approved by Congress, and imposing broad tariffs.Beth Zasloff, a protester in New York, said she joined because she feared “a move toward fascism and an authoritarian government.” Similar demonstrations also took place across Europe, with rallies in Berlin, Madrid, Rome, and London, as well as in Toronto, where protesters near the US consulate held signs reading “Hands off Canada.”