There are weekly demonstrations taking place in dozens of Maine towns against the Trump administration’s policies. We’re appealing for others to join us.

Our big “No Kings” demonstrations were carefully planned to be peaceful. On Oct. 18, 2025, protesters at the Waterville Veterans’ Memorial Park were patriotic, nonviolent and happy. American flags were everywhere, and nearly 2,000 people took part (with 3,000 in Augusta, and more in 50 other Maine towns). President Trump insults these civic-minded Americans, saying they hate America, but he cannot risk taking action against so many citizens (7 million) who protested that day in the U.S.

The weekly and the big “No Kings” rallies are a nice way to connect with people, and chances are some of our friends will be there — or bring a few. Rallying and standing up together feels right, and it brings us closer together as a community.

We resist the Trump administration for many reasons. The list of illegal actions is long, many of which threaten our freedoms. His subsidizing of fossil fuels instead of renewables makes climate change worse, threatening our lives and all that we love.

Resistance is already influencing our elections! But a historical analysis suggests that a 40% increase in our numbers may be needed to oust this regime. In 20 or 30 years, our grandchildren will ask, “What did you do to protect our democracy and to keep the Earth livable?” What will we choose our answer to be?

Richard Thomas
Waterville