Hundreds protested President Trump Saturday in St. Augustine as part of nationwide “No Kings” demonstrations, joining demonstrators across the country.
The protests brought people into streets and public spaces from major metros to smaller communities, including the Old City, where crowds gathered near the Castillo de San Marcos carrying signs and chanting.
A handful of counter-protesters also made their presence felt, waving pro-Trump and American flags.
“No Kings” organizers state that’s it meant to voice dissent against what they describe as authoritarian leadership and to call attention to key issues such as immigration enforcement, healthcare access, and the rising cost of living.
Others questioned the current war with Iran and the nation’s foreign policy in general.
Suzanna Pavelle of Indivisible St. Johns said the group has been coordinating local protests aimed at current policies.
“We’ve been organizing rallies and trying to bring attention to what’s happening with the Trump Administration,” she said. “I’d like to see a president who works for the people and not just himself.”
Pavelle is running for the District 19 seat in the Florida House of Representatives.
The faction massed in front of the heavily trafficked area around the Castillo de San Marcos.
Some drivers honked in support, while others jeered.
Despite the strong rhetoric, the event remained peaceful and no incidents were reported.
Saturday’s assembly was calmer than a January anti-ICE protest in the same area, which included a confrontation between a conservative YouTuber and federal parks police.
Reporting by Christian Rivera
