Thousands March in Western New York to Challenge Trump Policies

On October 18, 2025, thousands of individuals participated in protests across Western New York as part of the nationwide No Kings movement, expressing their opposition to policies enacted by the Trump administration. Demonstrators gathered in various locations, including Rochester’s Genesee Gateway Park, where an estimated 5,000 people voiced their concerns regarding issues such as immigration enforcement and cuts to essential programs.

Among the protesters was Jalen Wims, who attended the rally with friends Maeve O’Brien and Natalia Orozco. “We can take a second out of our busy lives to show up for a cause or something that we deem is important,” Wims stated, emphasizing the power of collective action. Orozco, who moved to Rochester from Colombia for her education, added, “I’m here today because I want to be heard. There are some issues in this country that affect me and my future.”

The protests coincided with the ongoing effects of a Republican-led government shutdown, which was approaching its third week. Demonstrators expressed their discontent with the deployment of the National Guard in cities across the U.S. and the administration’s heightened immigration enforcement. In Fairport, Nathan Leedom criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson‘s remarks that labeled the No Kings movement as “Hate America rallies.” Leedom countered, “Look at all these American flags. Look at all these people who love this country — and they hate what they see.”

Eighteen-year-olds Hayden Damer and Chase Kennedy joined the rally, eager to engage in the democratic process as they prepare to vote for the first time. “We’re the future of America and the country,” Damer remarked. He expressed concern over the treatment of undocumented immigrants, stating, “There are better and safer ways to do this. Making it so that people can’t live here is just a problem.”

Healthcare issues were also a focal point of the protests. A demonstrator named Roxanne shared her struggles with accessing necessary medical treatments, stating, “I feel like I’ll just be left out to die because I won’t be able to afford my health insurance.” This sentiment echoed throughout the rally, as many voiced fears about the potential impacts of policy changes on their well-being.

Dr. Arnold Matlin, a member of Genesee Valley Citizens for Peace, organized rallies in smaller towns across the region. “These are the places where we need to come out in the small towns, typically conservative, but still full of activists,” he noted.

In response to the protests, House Speaker Mike Johnson took to social media platform X, alleging that the events were funded by billionaire George Soros and sponsored by the Communist Party USA. “How could there be any more appropriate nickname than the ‘Hate America Rally?'” Johnson wrote.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump dismissed the characterization of himself as a “king,” stating, “They’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king.” Peter Elder, Chair of the Monroe GOP, reflected on the essence of the protests, saying, “If we truly lived under a king, this protest wouldn’t be allowed. The very ability to speak out is a testament to the freedom we all share — and we fully support that right, for everyone.”

As the No Kings movement continues to gain momentum, the protests in Western New York highlight a growing discontent with current policies and a call for greater civic engagement among younger generations.