NANUET, NY — An estimated 2,500 people gathered at the intersection of Middletown Road and Route 59 in Nanuet on Saturday to participate in “No Kings Day,” a nationwide day of protest. Despite steady rain, the large crowd remained peaceful throughout the afternoon, with demonstrators voicing opposition to a range of federal and state policies and recent political developments.
The corner of Route 59 and Middletown road is well known for protests over the decades. Notably, in the 2000’s, protestors of the Gulf War would congregate every Saturday, largely in peaceful protest – to voice their objections to the war in Iraq, which claimed the lives of thousands of US soldiers. After their protest, many would congregate at Panera Bread, for afternoon conversations. People from both Democratic, Republican, Independent and free-thinker points of view were welcome, and they often sat together to discuss issues.
No word if Democrats and Republicans spent any quality time together on this past Saturday.
Organized locally by grassroots groups including Indivisible Rockland – members of which are alleged to have organized several protests against Congressman Mike Lawler, the protest drew participation from residents across Rockland County and beyond.
A number of local public officials were in attendance, such as Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson. Davidson is also running for 2026 Democratic primary for New York’s 17th Congressional District against incumbent Mike Lawler.
Traffic along Route 59 slowed as passing drivers honked in support.
“No Kings Day” demonstrations were held in multiple cities across the country, reflecting widespread civic engagement around current national issues.