Thousands of people gathered at the Texas Capitol on Saturday to participate in a “No Kings Day” protest, part of a nationwide movement to push back against policies linked to the Trump administration. Local organizers and representatives, including Democratic Reps. Greg Casar and Lloyd Doggett of Austin, spoke at the Capitol.

In all, more than 2,500 demonstrations took place nationwide in the largest mobilization of protests since President Trump returned to office.

Texas Congressman Greg Casar was at the 'No Kings' protest in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. He says the protest has been peaceful and fun.

Organizers said some 2,600 protests were planned in the U.S. on Saturday. The protests were largely peaceful, as demonstrators united in their stated aim to safeguard the country's democratic values.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson is pushing back on Gov. Greg Abbott's deployment of the Texas National Guard and state troops to the city in what he calls a move of militarization—confirming troops will not be in the streets unless needed.