Local demonstrators from the Park City area joined statewide “No Kings” rallies on Saturday, showing continued opposition to the Trump administration and what participants described as growing threats to American democracy.
Earlier this summer, protesters gathered at the I-80 overpass in Kimball Junction, but this time the energy shifted beyond Park City. Activists from the Pro-Active Alliance, including organizer Suzanne Odell, coordinated carpools from Jeremy Park and Ride and Quinn’s Junction to join larger rallies in Salt Lake City and Heber City.
“We’ve had some violence here in Utah that’s made people cautious,” Odell said. “But now, more than ever, we can’t be afraid to show what we believe — that we support democracy and America.”
The crowd gathered at Jeremy Ranch reflected a mix of resolve and frustration. Jim Edmunds, 80, said, “In my lifetime, I’ve never seen anything like this. Everyone needs to get personally involved. Give me my country back, please.”
Others expressed concerns about political accountability and the erosion of democratic norms. Scott Bonz, a Park City resident, said, “The system that’s supposed to provide checks and balances isn’t doing its job. The Supreme Court and Congress aren’t standing up — and that’s dangerous.”
Former California police official Ross Heaton compared current national trends to troubling historical parallels. “As a former law enforcement officer, I can see where this is going, and it scares me,” he said.
Participants emphasized that the rallies were peaceful, patriotic, and fundamentally American. “Protesting doesn’t make you un-American,” said Chris Donnelly, who attended with his wife, Linsly. “America was built on standing up for what you believe — peacefully.”
Many demonstrators also voiced frustration with both political parties. “No Democrat is thrilled with where the party is right now,” Donnelly added. “We’re here to encourage leadership to stand up for what’s right.”
In Kamas, a smaller but equally passionate group held its own No Kings demonstration, joining a statewide movement calling for stronger democratic accountability. “This rally is 100% American,” said Erin Hirtle. “We love our country — and we’re here to help preserve our freedom.”
