By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Recent “No Kings” protests, held on October 18th across 50 US states and globally, marked one of the largest single-day demonstrations in US history, fueled by opposition to the Trump administration. A new study from Harvard’s Kennedy School reveals these protests are expanding geographically, reaching deeper into traditionally Republican areas than previously observed. Researchers analyzed protest data and found that the “cumulative share” of counties hosting events now exceeds 60%, surpassing the Black Lives Matter demonstrations of 2020. This trend indicates a significant shift, with protests occurring in counties that voted for Trump in the 2024 election.
Read the original article here
From Texas to Tennessee, even Trump country is marching against Trump, and it’s a fascinating shift to observe. The absence of counter-protests is particularly striking. These events, which in the past would have been met with a strong pro-Trump presence, are now lacking any organized counter-movement.
The lack of pro-Trump supporters at these protests indicates a significant change in the political landscape. The energy is definitely shifting. It’s one thing to see a large number of people upset and protesting, but it’s another thing entirely when the opposing side doesn’t show up. This suggests either a growing apathy among Trump’s supporters or a fear of the sheer numbers they’d face in a counter-protest.
This same energy is also showing up in special elections, with Democratic voters turning out in large numbers. Even in areas that didn’t swing Democrat, there was a noticeable shift leftward. The momentum is undeniable. This political shift is even impacting gerrymandering efforts, with some Republican leaders hesitating to push for it. Some are recognizing the writing on the wall and opting to distance themselves, hoping for better chances in the upcoming elections.
Urban areas in every state are predominantly blue, and these hubs drive productivity, innovation, and wealth. This creates a dynamic where urban areas support the surrounding red areas. The presence of Trump flags decreasing in traditionally conservative areas is a clear indicator of the changing times.
It’s understandable to feel cautious about the unfolding events, especially given past disappointments. There’s a widespread feeling that the current administration is eroding the power of the people. While there’s a lot of anger about what’s happening, and the destruction of the White House’s East Wing for a ballroom is definitely not helping, one of the most interesting aspects is the increasing willingness to speak out.
The narrative that MAGA supporters are the majority is being challenged by these developments. It’s crucial not to become complacent, as these sentiments can be hidden and reappear during elections. The fact remains that many Republicans are still going to vote for the Republican candidate, regardless of their own personal feelings.
The grievances against Trump are numerous and varied, ranging from the monetization of the presidency to the erosion of democratic norms. These criticisms encompass ethical and legal concerns, abuses of power, and a perceived transformation of the presidency into something resembling a monarchy. The perception is that the Trump administration is not working for the good of all Americans and that their actions are falling all Americans regardless of their political beliefs.
The list of grievances includes allegations of obstruction of justice, the use of the Department of Justice for political purposes, and the undermining of independent agencies. Furthermore, there are claims of the abuse of executive powers, the suppression of free speech, and the weaponization of government agencies to punish critics.
The actions and rhetoric of the Trump administration are seen as inciting hostilities and undermining the constitution. The actions of Trump are viewed by some as an authoritarian leader, working to solidify his power and strip away at the freedom and independence of the American people.
The observations are that the political dynamics are changing. There’s a notable rise in protests against Trump, coupled with a decline in organized counter-protests. This shift is visible in special elections and even in the changing political landscape in traditionally conservative areas. Republicans are also starting to distance themselves from MAGA, recognizing the potential impact on future elections.
Apathy may be setting in for the MAGA voters, and as they realize that the promises of a return to power and peace were not met, their resentment grows.
The gerrymandering efforts are slowing down and may be a strategic play. The media’s portrayal of Trump’s actions may be outsized but it is not entirely inaccurate. The transformation of the White House is a serious misstep, potentially alienating even those who are typically apolitical.
The fear is that while the current administration may be a mistake, a truly terrible move will be deploying the national guard. The wave elections could counteract any gerrymandering efforts.
The observation is that the country is changing. The government may have lost the plot. The counter-protests are declining. It is possible that the original counter protestors are being employed by ICE.