Topeka “No Kings” rally brings marching, chants and ends peacefully

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - A crowd estimated at more than 2,000 people gathered at the Kansas Statehouse grounds Saturday afternoon, ing a series of nationwide protests.

The group heard speeches, yelled chants, and ed in a walk around the Statehouse perimeter over the course of two hours.

Collectively called the “No Kings” rallies, organizers say they are protesting what they consider authoritarian overreach by the Trump istration.

“We’re not extremists - we’re everyday Kansans,” Kansas 50501 organizer Christie Peterson said in a statement announcing the rally. “This isn’t about party. This is about people. We’re standing up for democracy, ability, and the Constitution.”

A handful of people ing the Trump istration also at the Statehouse.

The Kansas Highway Patrol estimated the crowd to be between 2,000 and 2,500 people. They reported no issues during the event.

The nationwide demonstrations are happening the same day as a military parade will take place in Washington, D.C. to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Soldiers from Fort Riley, Kansas are among those who will take part.

The agenda for the Kansas Statehouse rally includes speakers, a dedication of flags recognizing people and groups organizers say have been harmed by the Trump istration’s policies, and a march.