1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites

'No Kings' rallies push early voting ahead of US midterm elections

Emmy Sasipornkarn with AFP, AP
October 18, 2026

Organizers of the "No Kings" protests, known for their anti-Trump sentiment, are urging Americans to vote early in the November 3 midterm elections, as Republicans face tough races to retain control of Congress.

Protesters gather for a "No Kings" rally on October 17, 2026, in New York, United States
It was the fourth 'No Kings' protest since President Trump returned to officeImage: Madison Swart/AP Photo/picture alliance

Protesters gathered across the United States for the latest "No Kings" demonstrations as Americans begin casting ballots ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

Dubbed "No Kings: Vote Early," Saturday's event aimed to fire up Americans to vote early in the midterm elections, which will determine which party controls Congress, rather than protest against President Donald Trump and his administration.

"It's a day of nonpartisan voter participation: we are bringing our community together to make a plan to vote early and ensuring every eligible voter understands their options for how to vote and has the opportunity to make their voice heard," organizers said in a statement.

Most areas of the United States allow voters to cast their ballots ahead of time, sometimes weeks in advance.

There were more than 3,000 'No Kings' events planned across the USImage: Daniel Heuer/REUTERS

Trump opposes mail-in voting

Trump repeatedly criticized mail-in voting and sought to restrict the practice ahead of the midterms. He regularly votes by mail-in ballot, arguing that his job makes him an exception to his criticism of the practice. 

The US president blamed election fraud, without providing evidence, for his defeat in the 2020 presidential election against Democrat Joe Biden.

Various surveys have concluded that restricting mail-in ballots could benefit Republicans, as Democratic voters disproportionately use the system to cast their ballots.

Opponents fear that the Trump administration may try to interfere with the midterm results, particularly if Republicans lose the majority.

Opinion polls suggest Democrats are poised to regain control of the House ​of Representatives, while the Senate remains too close to call. 

When paychecks fall short: America's affordability squeeze

20:14

This browser does not support the video element.

Edited by: Sean Sinico

Don't let the algorithm hide the news. If you rely on our team for trusted reporting, please take a moment to select us as your Preferred Source on Google, so you'll always see our verified news first.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW