‘No Kings’ rallies held across New Jersey, including Warren, Sussex and Somerset counties
NEW JERSEY — Crowds gathered across New Jersey on Saturday, Oct. 17, for “No Kings” events, including demonstrations in Warren, Sussex and Somerset counties, as part of a nationwide movement combining political protests with voter registration assistance and early voting education.
The events were part of the “No Kings: Vote Early” initiative, which organizers described as an effort to encourage voter participation ahead of the upcoming election. Unlike previous demonstrations, organizers said Saturday’s activities were designed to focus on helping eligible voters understand their voting options and develop plans to cast their ballots.
In Warren County, crowds gathered in Hackettstown at the intersection of Main Street (Route 46) and Willow Grove Street. The event was held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. and included opportunities for participants to check their voter registration status, develop early voting plans and contribute to a community banner titled “Why I Vote.”
Organizers described the Hackettstown gathering as a nonpartisan voter participation event intended to encourage civic engagement and ensure eligible voters had information about how to participate in the electoral process.
In Sussex County, hundreds of people gathered at Newton Green in Newton for an event held from 10 a.m. to noon. According to a Facebook post by the Sussex Visibility Brigade, an estimated 300 to 500 community members attended the gathering, which emphasized the importance of voting and encouraged participants to cast their ballots early.
The organization described the gathering as an opportunity to remind participants of their role in the democratic process and encourage continued civic participation.
Somerset County also hosted events Saturday morning, including a gathering at the community gazebo at 475 DeMott Lane in Franklin Township from 10 a.m. to noon. Another demonstration was held outside the Somerset County Courthouse on East Main Street in Somerville, beginning at 10 a.m.
The local gatherings were among events held nationwide under the “No Kings” banner, a movement whose participants have protested President Donald Trump’s administration and what organizers describe as threats to democratic institutions and the concentration of political power.
Organizers described Saturday’s events as nonpartisan efforts to encourage voter participation ahead of the November election, with activities open to all eligible voters regardless of political affiliation. However, the broader “No Kings” movement has organized demonstrations opposing President Donald Trump’s administration.
