In the latest display of drama and theatrical absurdity, protesters around the country have taken to the streets declaring a “No Kings Day” in opposition to former President Donald Trump. In a scene reminiscent of a summer camp jamboree, the masses gathered with their placards and once-a-year protest sneakers to decry what they perceive as the tyrannical inclinations of Trump’s presidency. They chanted slogans, waved flags, and, for those who really took the costume memo seriously, dressed up in inflatable unicorn outfits—because nothing says “serious political discourse” quite like a pink unicorn.
The crux of their argument seems to be that Trump, who was elected through the country’s democratic process with a clear majority in the Electoral College, somehow morphed into an authoritarian monarch overnight. This is an interesting take, especially considering he had a penchant for actually delivering on his campaign promises—a rare trait indeed in the political realm. But to some, fulfilling one’s promises might just be, well, too much like doing one’s job properly. Clearly, the idea that a president should be responsive to the will of the people is lost on the “No Kings” cohort.
Interestingly enough, this parade of discontent was heavily populated by older, white boomers—an age group not exactly known for their athletic prowess, but there’s no better time to start a step-count challenge. Maybe next they’ll take up pickleball or find some other way to protest that involves a bit more cardiovascular health. The irony here is stark, given these are the same folks who want to lecture everyone else about diversity and inclusion. It turns out that even righteous indignation has a bit of a diversity issue when you look closely at the crowd’s demographic composition.
The cacophony of complaints also included accusations of Trump acting like a fascist dictator. Yet, as these outlandish comparisons to Hitler were hurled, one couldn’t help but notice the contradictions in the backdrop—a president who was instrumental in diplomatic negotiations to secure the release of political prisoners. If anything, it highlights just how detached from reality some of these accusations are. To compare Trump to history’s tyrannical villains rapidly approaches the realm of satire, perhaps better suited for an SNL skit than serious political debate.
Lastly, one must commend the effort these protesters made to physically show up, albeit with varying degrees of coherence in their message. They bring to mind the aging Woodstock generation, now reimagined with a twist of postmodern irony. If their goal was sheer volume and noise, they might have succeeded; but if their mission was to sway opinions with inflated rhetoric and farcical displays, well, it might be time to revisit the drawing board. Meanwhile, beyond the megaphones and marching, the rest of the country continues to strive for actual progress, free from the imaginary reins of any supposed “king.”
