Bay City and Saginaw residents joined a nationwide wave of protests on March 28, participating in demonstrations organized under the banner of “No Kings.” The protests, which took place in over 3,000 locations across the country, voiced concerns over the concentration of power within the executive branch and specific policies of the current presidential administration. The demonstrations reflect a growing sentiment among some Americans that checks and balances are being eroded, and that the principles of democratic governance are at risk. These “No Kings” protests, now in their third organized round since June 2025, are becoming increasingly visible, drawing attention to a complex set of grievances.
The protests in both Michigan cities remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing a commitment to non-violent expression. In Bay City, demonstrators gathered at Wenonah Park before marching to Bay City Hall, while in Saginaw, protesters assembled to voice similar concerns. The events underscore a localized expression of a national movement, fueled by anxieties over issues ranging from foreign policy to domestic enforcement practices.
Local Concerns Fuel National Movement
Kale Schafer, a member of Bay City Resistance, explained the impetus behind the local demonstration. “No Kings protests, to me, just mean we need to stop allowing the executive branch to do whatever it wants,” Schafer said. He cited the ongoing conflict with Iran and what he described as the controversial actions of Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) as key drivers for community involvement. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has faced scrutiny over its enforcement tactics and detention practices in recent years, prompting calls for more constitutional approaches to immigration enforcement.
Schafer believes local governments have a role to play in addressing these concerns. “Local governments should take notice,” he stated. “They should all be aware of the fact that this is a large, committed movement of people.” The Bay City Resistance, according to Schafer, aims to raise awareness and advocate for policies that uphold constitutional principles and protect civil liberties.
Peaceful “No Kings” protests criticizing presidential executive power took place nationwide, including in Bay City and Saginaw.
Not all attendees shared the same perspective. Nelson Niederer, a counter-protester in Bay City, voiced strong support for the current administration. “We have no kings. We haven’t had a king since 1776,” Niederer asserted. “My opinion—he’s the greatest president this country’s ever had.” This illustrates the polarized nature of the political climate and the diverse range of opinions surrounding the president’s policies and actions.
Saginaw Organizers Focus on Democratic Principles
Just 20 minutes from Bay City, in Saginaw, organizers echoed the concerns raised by protesters elsewhere. Kim Rowan, an organizer of the Saginaw demonstration, emphasized the importance of defending democratic principles. “We’re out here because we are fighting for democracy,” Rowan said. “We don’t believe that the Trump administration is doing right by the people.” Rowan noted that the Saginaw protest, like others across the country, has grown in size with each successive demonstration. “They just keep getting bigger,” she observed.
The “No Kings” movement appears to be gaining momentum, fueled by a combination of grassroots organizing and online activism. The movement’s official organizing platform is scheduled to host a mass virtual event on Tuesday to discuss the latest developments and chart a course for the future. Details about the event can be found on their website, though a direct link was not immediately available.
Understanding the Roots of the Protest
The “No Kings” protests are rooted in a broader critique of executive overreach and a perceived erosion of democratic norms. Critics point to a series of actions taken by the current administration – including executive orders on immigration, trade, and foreign policy – as evidence of a disregard for established legal processes and congressional oversight. The protests also reflect anxieties about the potential for abuse of power and the weakening of institutions designed to protect civil liberties. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), for example, has been actively tracking and challenging policies they believe infringe upon constitutional rights.
The specific grievances vary among protesters, but common themes include concerns about the administration’s handling of the war with Iran, its immigration policies, and its response to climate change. The protests also serve as a platform for advocating for broader systemic changes, such as campaign finance reform and voting rights protections.
The increasing scale of the protests suggests a growing dissatisfaction with the current political landscape. While the long-term impact of the “No Kings” movement remains to be seen, it has tapped into a deep well of frustration and anxiety among a significant segment of the population. The movement’s ability to mobilize supporters and sustain momentum will be crucial in determining its future trajectory.
The next scheduled event for the “No Kings” coalition is the virtual meeting on Tuesday, where organizers will discuss strategy and future actions. Individuals interested in learning more about the movement or getting involved can seek out information through online channels and local organizing groups.
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