A “No Kings” protest in Maplewood, NJ, attracted around 2,000 attendees last weekend, criticizing President Trump’s administration on various issues, including immigration and health care. Organized by local advocacy group SOMA Action, the peaceful rally featured signs with messages about fascism and community care, and included U.S. Sen. Andy Kim among the participants. This protest was part of a nationwide movement the organizers claimed included 2,700 events and seven million people, characterized as one of the largest single-day demonstrations in U.S history. While Trump dismissed the protests as small, he responded with a satirical video of himself mocking the demonstrators. Essex County has been a hotspot for anti-Trump rallies since he took office, with local residents divided over the protests, prompting discussions about potential regulations. Civil rights advocates emphasize the importance of the right to protest, highlighting protections under the First Amendment.

