Massive ‘No Kings’ Movement Takes Over Main Strip in Bold Protest

Maricopa witnessed one of its largest protests this morning as the “No Kings” movement gathered on John Wayne Parkway.

This nationwide demonstration, including multiple events across the Valley, aims to oppose President Donald J. Trump’s policies and a military parade occurring today in Washington, D.C.

More than 150 individuals congregated near Smith-Enke Road around 8 a.m., including Abby Thomas and Cal Winters, an engaged couple from The Villages at Rancho El Dorado. The pair proudly donned pride flags.

“We are passionate about doing what’s right,” Thomas stated, her voice competing with honking cars. “This protest felt like an opportunity to influence the country’s trajectory.”

Participants displayed various creative signs, prominently featuring the movement’s name, “NO KINGS.”

One attendee wore a taco costume while holding a sign that read: “HONK IF TRUMP IS CHICKEN!” Another proclaimed, “THE ONLY KING I RECOGNIZE IS ARAGORN.”

However, the protest faced some opposition. A smaller group of Trump supporters drove by, shouting taunts such as, “You’re unimportant idiots.” Protesters responded to these remarks with cheers.

Bill Robertson, a Maricopa Planning and Zoning Commissioner who had previously criticized the protest, attended and live-streamed the event on Facebook.

One counter-protester stood on the eastern sidewalk, displaying a flipped American flag alongside the Arizona flag, with the words “ARIZONA FOR TRUMP” encased in barbed wire.

To ensure safety, the Arizona Department of Public Safety deployed additional police presence, stationing state troopers at nearby Chase Bank to monitor the event.

A helicopter from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office also circled the area briefly.