Around 250 people gathered at Garfield Square in Pottsville on Saturday afternoon for a “No Kings” rally, part of a national movement emphasizing democracy, constitutional principles, and checks and balances in government.
While modest compared to larger demonstrations across the country, organizers noted the turnout was significant for Schuylkill County. The event marked the second “No Kings” rally held in Pottsville this year and one of more than a dozen protests organized locally in 2025.
During the demonstration, a group of about 10 to 15 pro-President Trump supporters marched around the rally and engaged in heated but largely peaceful conversations with attendees.
One of the speakers, Todd Zimmerman, Chairman of the Schuylkill County Democratic Party, emphasized that the rally’s central message remained the same: protecting democracy and resisting what participants view as authoritarian tendencies in national politics.
“It’s the same message, and it’s just resonating with people,” Zimmerman said. “This is to support democracy and to follow the Constitution. All Americans believe that we should not have a king—that’s part of our foundation.”
Zimmerman criticized the lack of checks and balances in Washington, arguing that the legislative branch has failed to hold President Trump accountable, while the judiciary remains divided.
He also noted that economic struggles and cuts to social programs are motivating factors for many who attended.
“We’ve seen in Schuylkill County that food banks have dried up because they’re not getting financial aid,” Zimmerman said. “As more and more Americans are being hurt by these policies and see that they’re benefiting Trump and the billionaires, they’re realizing he is the swamp.”
Zimmerman also looked ahead to the 2026 elections, stressing the importance of local and national races.
“We have three young, dynamic candidates running (Congressional District 9), and I’m hosting a Zoom for them on November 10th so people in Schuylkill County can get to know them,” he explained. “This is an odd-year election, so turnout isn’t as big, but I’ll guarantee you next year there’s going to be very high turnout.”
Despite the presence of counter-protesters, Saturday’s event remained peaceful, with both sides voicing their opinions without escalation.
The “No Kings” movement, which has held rallies in communities nationwide, is expected to continue organizing events in the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections.
