what to know and where to go

The nationwide anti-Trump “No Kings” protests are returning to the Valley just a little more than two weeks ahead of Election Day this Saturday. 

With an approval rating of only 35%, the president is reaching new lows in popularity. He’s entered into an unpopular, persistent war with Iran that’s increased gas prices amid an affordability crisis. He’s focused his energy on White House ballrooms and presidential arches. The administration’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency is still shooting people in the streets. 

That amounts to what pundits are calling a potential blue wave ahead of the November midterms. Arizona’s top three state elected officials — all Democratic incumbents — are up for reelection. Democrats aim to flip at least two Arizonan congressional seats in the U.S. House. There’s even been talk of flipping the state legislature, though that may be nothing more than a pipe dream. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance is suggesting Senate candidates are gay in a giggling man-child way and thinking it counts as an insult. 

Either way, there’s plenty of energy for progressive causes, and plenty of residents who are mad as hell and not willing to take it anymore. That’s just in time for “No Kings” election-themed “March to the Polls” day of action. 

Here’s what you should know about Saturday’s protests: 

When and where are the Phoenix ‘No Kings’ protests? 

October’s largest protest and rally will look a bit different this time. Instead of starting at the state Capitol or Arizona Financial Theatre, the protest will begin at Grant Park in downtown Phoenix, 701 S 3rd Ave., then march to the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center and back. It’s planned from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on October 17, though past demonstrations have lasted longer than the official schedule. 

Several other, smaller events are being held around the Valley on Saturday, and you can find them on the “No Kings” website’s map tool. They include: 

• Central Phoenix’s “Bike Out the Vote”: 620 W Osborn Road, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
• Scottsdale: 7135 E Camelback Road, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 
• Tempe’s pedestrian bridge protest and march: 2000 E Carson Drive, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 
• Mesa’s March: US-60 overpass on S. Stapley Drive and continue down Stapley Drive, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
• Chandler/Gilbert: Galveston Pedestrian Bridge at 2825 W Galveston Street, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 
• Glendale: Glendale Bridge Brigade, 20220 N 59th Ave, 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. 
• North Phoenix: 2500 W Happy Valley Road, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 
• Surprise: North Civic Center Drive & Bell Road, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 
• Fountain Hills: North Saguaro Boulevard & East Avenue of the Fountains, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
• Sun City: Bell Road & North 99th Ave, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Protests will also occur across the state in cities like Anthem, Apache Junction, Florence, Casa Grande, Tucson, Flagstaff, Sedona, Prescott, and Yuma. 

How can I get involved in the Phoenix ‘No Kings’ protests? 

You can RSVP to the protest by looking at the map, selecting a specific protest and signing up for updates. You can also send questions to info@nokings.org. The website also offers resources for anyone interested in hosting their own protest event.

Who is organizing the protests? 

Hundreds of grassroots organizations are working together on the day of action, including many local Indivisible groups, Proyecto Progreso, Progress Arizona, Rush-hour Resistance Rally, the ACLU and others. 

What should I know before I go? 

It’s finally cooling off, but don’t get too comfortable. With the sun peeking out from behind the clouds in the late morning, it can warm up faster than expected for the march. Attendees should bring plenty of water, sunscreen, good walking shoes and shade, like an umbrella or baseball cap. 

Depending on the location, protesters should stay on public sidewalks to avoid running afoul of trespassing laws with local businesses or police. Organizers encourage you to bring your ballot — to return to the MCTEC drop box — as well as signs, banners, posters and flags.