Anti-Trump activists and thousands of protestors at various Valley locations could be seen marching and carrying signs or wearing clothing with disapproving messages about Trump. More than 1,000 gathered outside of the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall to share their disapproval of Trump, his policies and administration.
The protest spanned nearly a mile in Downtown Scottsdale with many drivers honking along in support.
Last year’s June and October No Kings rallies took the nation by storm, and support still continues pouring in.
Estimates say 8 million people or more came together for the protests on the 28th.
Alongside several tables for donations and anti-Trump branded merchandise, several live music performances went on.
No Kings representatives remained adamant about maintaining a peaceful presence and reminded gatherers not to engage with agitators.
No Kings’ message and purpose is simple — America has no kings, and no rule is absolute.
Scottsdale resident Diana Winston told Northeast Valley News, “We had a revolution to get rid of a king, and now our president seems to think he can do whatever he wants…”
“I just feel like we’re losing our democracy,” Winston said.
Winston and several others say that greed has taken over the congress, and US citizens are struggling as a result.
This is following outrage sparked by a proposed for-profit ICE detention center in Tucson.
Protestor Dian Weisman shared her frustration with Northeast Valley News.
“I’m so tired of watching our country slowly go into a sewer … They’re lining their own pockets when we have real, serious problems with people unable to feed their children and go to work to make a living.”
Arizona residents say they hope representatives respond with meaningful action and transparency going forward and if not, people are ready to vote them out.
Jane Lyons, a mother and an Arizona native, says she wants her children to grow up in a democracy. “America was founded on the principle on not having a king … fighting for the people and not for dictators.”
No Kings and other advocacy groups are already lining up for more events, rallies, and web seminars to discuss the next steps and how residents can stay active in their states.