Austin Protesters Rally Against Trump Administration During 'No Kings' Demonstration

Thousands of demonstrators gathered around the Texas Capitol on Saturday for the nationwide “No Kings” event, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s birthday and a military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary. 

The Austin protest, one of the largest in Texas that day, attracted demonstrators expressing their concerns about what they characterized as the Trump administration's erosion of democratic principles.

Demonstrators showcased their dissent by holding signs and donning gold paper crowns marked with the words “No Kings,” representing their resistance to what they perceive as an increasing concentration of executive authority. “We haven’t had a king since 1776,” remarked protester Robbie Albracht, who was participating in her fourth demonstration of the week. “At this moment, we are not interested.”

Among the thousands present were scientists, federal employees, and young activists brought together by their shared frustration over policies regarding immigration, environmental regulation, and government transparency. 

Biologist Blinda McClelland and her husband, an environmental engineer, expressed that reductions to agencies such as the EPA and NIH have compelled them to take action. “We’re reverting to a time long past,” she stated.

At the Capitol, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett and state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, both representing Austin, energized the audience with passionate appeals for reform and accountability in the democratic process. Following the event, a large crowd made their way through downtown Austin, while another group assembled outside the J.J. Pickle Federal Building, the location where ICE detainees are held. A line of Austin police confronted the protesters, ultimately instructing them to disperse. The group adhered to the plan, dividing into smaller processions throughout the city.

Austin Police reported that the demonstration was predominantly calm. However, they recognized a “small number of agitators” and confirmed that a threat had been directed at state lawmakers earlier in the evening. By the conclusion of the evening, there were no reports of injuries or arrests.

“The demonstration has ended.” The department shared on X shortly after 11 p.m. that the event was predominantly peaceful, except for a few individuals who caused disruptions. 

Additional information regarding the alleged threat is anticipated in the days ahead.