LOS ANGELES, CA – October 18, 2025 – Tens of thousands converged across Los Angeles County today, participating in a nationwide wave of “No Kings” protests aimed at voicing widespread concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement and what organizers describe as creeping authoritarianism under the Trump administration.
Nationwide Movement Hits Southern California
The “No Kings” demonstrations, part of a coordinated national effort involving rallies in all 50 states, saw significant turnout in the Los Angeles area, with major gatherings concentrated at Gloria Molina Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles and various other locations throughout the county. Organizers estimated hundreds of events nationwide, with Los Angeles County alone hosting at least 30 major protests, building on the momentum of earlier large-scale demonstrations. The movement’s core message, “America has no kings,” serves as a direct challenge to President Trump’s policies and leadership style, which critics argue represent an “authoritarian drive” and a threat to democratic norms.
Immigration Raids and Fear Fueling Protests
A primary catalyst for the widespread protests, particularly in Los Angeles, has been the intensification of federal immigration raids. These operations, which have occurred across the region, have instilled widespread fear among immigrant communities, disrupting livelihoods and destabilizing families. Los Angeles County officials had recently declared a local state of emergency specifically in response to these federal immigration actions, highlighting the profound impact on residents and the county’s economy. Reports indicated that these raids have led to a significant drop in average weekly earnings for immigrants and have caused families to face destitution due to breadwinners being taken from their workplaces. Concerns were also heightened by incidents like the one in West Hollywood, where unmarked vehicles and a significant law enforcement presence sparked fears of an ICE raid, though local officials later clarified it was a local law enforcement operation.
Challenging Perceived Authoritarianism
Beyond immigration, the “No Kings” movement broadly protests against what participants and organizers perceive as an “authoritarian power grab” by the Trump administration. This includes critiques of perceived attempts to consolidate power, defy judicial rulings, and erode democratic institutions. Experts and many citizens have voiced concerns about a potential slide towards authoritarianism, citing the administration’s rhetoric, policies, and actions as mirroring tactics seen in other nations. The protests aim to push back against such trends and reinforce the principle that governmental power resides with the people, not with a single leader.
A Broad Coalition of Support
The “No Kings” movement is backed by a diverse coalition of over 200 national organizations and thousands of local groups. Prominent among these are the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the American Federation of Teachers, MoveOn, SEIU Local 721, Black Lives Matter Grassroots–Los Angeles, and the Working Families Party. These organizations have united to challenge the administration’s policies on immigration, civil liberties, and what they define as “creeping authoritarianism”. The protests are a continuation of similar large-scale demonstrations held earlier in the year, indicating a sustained effort to influence current political discourse and policy.
Day of Action in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, the day featured a mix of large rallies and smaller, more localized events. The main gathering at Gloria Molina Grand Park saw thousands participating in what was described as a festival-like atmosphere with signs, chants, and music. Organizers emphasized peaceful demonstration, providing guidance on de-escalation and “Know Your Rights” information.
As evening approached, law enforcement maintained a significant presence in downtown Los Angeles, particularly near the Metropolitan Detention Center. Police declared an unlawful assembly and issued dispersal orders in certain areas, leading to tense standoffs and the use of nonlethal rounds and tear gas by officers in an attempt to clear crowds. While daytime demonstrations were largely peaceful, the evening saw clashes, with some protesters accusing law enforcement of escalating tensions. LAPD reported arrests for failure to comply with dispersal orders.
Broader Political Context
The “No Kings” protests are occurring amidst a backdrop of significant political polarization and ongoing debate over the Trump administration’s policies. Republican leaders have frequently characterized these protests as “hate America” rallies or “election denier” events, dismissing their significance. Conversely, organizers and participants view the demonstrations as a patriotic defense of democratic rights and a crucial stand against what they see as a dangerous trend towards autocracy. The extensive nature of the protests, involving millions nationwide, underscores the deep divisions and active public engagement surrounding the current political landscape in the United States.
The “No Kings” protests across Los Angeles County on October 18, 2025, served as a powerful expression of dissent, highlighting urgent concerns about immigration policies and the state of democratic governance. The widespread participation signals a significant segment of the population’s commitment to challenging perceived authoritarian overreach and demanding accountability for the current administration’s actions.
