This article was updated at 9:46 p.m. with additional information.
Thousands gathered across Montana in Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, Billings, and Bozeman for the third nationwide “No Kings” rally, protesting President Donald Trump’s policies. The rallies voiced opposition to immigration enforcement, the Iran war, and perceived authoritarianism.
In Missoula, 3,500 demonstrators marched along the Clark Fork River, chanting against ICE and authoritarianism. Billings saw around 3,300 participants according to local news, while Bozeman experienced similar turnouts. Smaller towns in Montana also participated with enthusiastic crowds.
In Helena, over 1,500 protested in front of the state Capitol, demanding ICE to be removed and defending democratic unity. The event unfolded despite initial hurdles with rally permits, which were reversed following public backlash against new state rules that temporarily hindered weekend rallies.
Former Montana Gov. Steve Bullock criticized Gov. Greg Gianforte’s attempt to restrict the rally. On the Capitol’s nearly off-limits Flag Plaza, Bullock remarked that the reversal of the permit guidelines was a victory for democratic voices. Indivisible Helena organizer Claudia Clifford thanked those who championed constitutional rights for free speech, enabling the event.
Barbara Barnes from Indivisible Helena reported an estimated 3,500 attendees in Helena, marking the largest No Kings protest there. Local veterans and students were among those who spoke, emphasizing the importance of the constitutional rights of assembly and free speech.
The protests were part of more than 3,250 “No Kings” demonstrations worldwide. Great Falls saw about 800 people protesting on a downtown bridge. Demonstrators engaged passing motorists with signs supporting democracy and opposing war.
Elsewhere, towns like Hamilton and Plentywood hosted smaller rallies, reflecting the dissent against Trump’s administration across Montana. The Trump administration, meanwhile, dismissed the protests as mere media spectacles. Despite that, Indivisible groups across the state continue organizing events to promote democracy and counter authoritarianism.
Local chapters of Indivisible participated significantly in the protests, aiming to counteract authoritarianism and foster democracy, despite criticism from figures like Republican Sen. Tim Sheehy.
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