In a move to counter President Donald Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., marking the Army’s 250th anniversary, Montanans took to the streets on Saturday in protest against perceived constitutional violations. The peaceful demonstrations were part of approximately 2,000 “No Kings” gatherings nationwide. These rallies served as counterprogramming to Trump’s events, coinciding with his 79th birthday.
Montana saw a dozen protests across cities like Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Great Falls, and Hamilton. At the Montana Tribal Flag Plaza in Helena, about 1,000 people participated in a protest organized by Helena’s Indivisible chapter. The event featured speeches from diverse leaders condemning authoritarianism and promoting constitutionalism.
Credit: Zeke Lloyd / MTFP
Speakers highlighted concerns about Trump’s attempts to centralize power, as emphasized by Pat Cotter, a former Montana Supreme Court justice. Expressing his frustration, Helena resident Scott Payton emphasized the urgency of taking action due to cuts in social programs and increased ICE activities, which recently led to protests in Los Angeles. The presence of National Guard troops and Marines in the city, despite local opposition, further fueled discontent.
The Helena protest showcased a range of humorous and critical signs targeting Trump’s presidency. Some signs humorously referenced his term, while others drew harsh comparisons, such as equating ICE to the Gestapo. Charlie Snellman, a young activist, linked Trump’s policies to early Nazi tactics, sparking debate over historical parallels and political rhetoric.
Credit: Zeke Lloyd / MTFP
Despite differing opinions, attendees shared a common goal of opposing Trump’s perceived autocratic tendencies. Jennifer Listerud, a Helena resident, emphasized the importance of respectful discourse, avoiding ad hominem attacks. Sam Parks from Townsend noted the diverse coalition present at the rally, including veterans and LGBTQ+ supporters. In contrast, volunteer Dawn Gunther lamented the lack of younger participants.
Protests were briefly disrupted by a pickup truck with Trump symbols, reminiscent of a previous incident at a rally in Missoula. In Bozeman, a man faced charges after escalating tensions by driving a tractor-trailer toward protesters. When asked about these rallies, Trump dismissed allegations of being a king, citing the difficulties he faces in policy approval processes.
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