Key Highlights
- The “No Kings” rallies have seen a significant turnout of nearly seven million people across the United States.
- New research from Harvard University indicates that anti-Trump protests are spreading into traditionally red, pro-Trump areas.
- Academic Erica Chenoweth’s 3.5% rule suggests that for movements to be successful against authoritarianism, they need to reach at least 3.5% of the population in protest.
- The “No Kings” movement has grown rapidly since its inception, indicating a potential path towards achieving the critical threshold.
The Scale and Reach of Anti-Trump Protests
The recent wave of anti-Trump protests known as the “No Kings” rallies has captured national attention. According to estimates from organizers, nearly seven million people turned out for these nationwide gatherings on October 21, 2025, marking one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history.
These demonstrations were organized by various groups, including Indivisible, a well-known advocacy organization that has been instrumental in promoting local activism. The movement’s emphasis on organizing at the grassroots level highlights its commitment to mobilizing communities across the country.
The Spread of Protests into Trump Strongholds
According to new research from the Kennedy School at Harvard University, titled “The Resistance Reaches into Trump Country,” anti-Trump protests are gaining momentum in areas that traditionally supported President Donald Trump during his second term. The data shows a marked increase in the number of counties hosting such protests compared to his first term.
This trend is significant because it indicates that the movement is not only growing but also diversifying geographically. The research, led by Erica Chenoweth, an expert on successful movements against authoritarianism, reveals that these protests are reaching into regions where Trump had strong support in 2024.
The 3.5% Rule and Its Relevance
Chenoweth’s 3.5% rule suggests that for a movement to be successful, it must achieve at least 3.5% of the population participating in protest. In the context of the United States, this translates to nearly 12 million people. The current growth trajectory of the “No Kings” movement is particularly noteworthy.
For reference, Indivisible estimated that three million people participated in the “Hands Off” protests in April, and five million attended the first “No Kings” rally in June. This rapid increase indicates a strong upward trend that could potentially push the movement over the critical threshold of 3.5%.
Conclusion
The Potential for Success
The success of the anti-Trump movement is not just about numbers; it also hinges on maintaining momentum and engaging new constituencies. As the “No Kings” rallies continue to grow, they are creating a formidable challenge to Trump’s legacy and political influence.
With nearly seven million people already mobilized, the movement has achieved substantial progress. However, the 3.5% rule underscores that there is still work to be done. If the current trend continues, it is not out of reach for the “No Kings” rallies to reach and possibly exceed this critical threshold.
