'No Kings' protests: Shorewood rally part of nationwide demonstrations

SHOREWOOD, Wis. - Thousands of "No Kings" rallies were planned across the country on Saturday, including in the Milwaukee area where people protested against President Donald Trump's policies and other issues.

Protest in Shorewood

What they're saying:

More than 100 demonstrations were planned across Wisconsin, including in Brookfield and Milwaukee's Washington Park neighborhood.

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In Shorewood, more than 2,000 people showed up along Capitol Drive with posters and signs. 

"There are many reasons people are out here. If you read the signs, everybody has something, but collectively, this is a country that is by the people for the people," said Kate, who did not give her last name. 

Several people who spoke to FOX6 News said they participated for a number of reasons that included protecting the U.S. Constitution, ending hate, immigration and human rights.

"I've been alive a long time, and this is the worst I've seen," said Doris Grodesky. "I think the smaller protests are even more powerful than big city protests, because it shows the discontent locally all over this country."

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"We need to stand up for our government right now," said Kim Miller.

The message of the nationwide "No Kings" demonstrations focuses on Trump, and demonstrators say he and his administration overstep their legal authority.

"Starting an unnecessary war because he wants to leave a legacy is just embarrassing, and the idea that he is supporting the billionaires and not the people – our economy is struggling," said Alex Thibou.

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Watch live: 'No Kings' protests planned across the US

More than 9 million people are expected to gather at "No Kings" rallies across the country Saturday to oppose what they call authoritarianism under President Trump.

"This is complete insanity. We need to stop this, and of course, there is one person who's in charge of it all, and anything that he says unfortunately goes," said Kate.

The Shorewood protest's organizer said they've held three other "No Kings" rallies, but the one on Saturday afternoon was the biggest thus far. They're already planning another one for the summer.

"The turnout today was remarkable," said 98-year-old participant Jerry Wallace. "I've seen it all, been through it all, and this is right now – the country is in a bad situation."

Republicans respond

The other side:

In a statement, Republican Party of Wisconsin spokesperson Anika Rickard said:

"The only wannabe king in Wisconsin is Tony Evers. He unilaterally raised taxes for 400 years and continues to try to consolidate power in the Executive Branch with the help of the far-left Supreme Court. While these protesters cry wolf, Republicans are delivering real results for every Wisconsinite."

Wisconsin Young Republicans Chair Kyle Shroeder said of the planned rallies:

"Wisconsinites are opening up their property tax bills seeing year one of 400 of Tony Evers 400-year property tax increase. If democrats were truly for "No Kings", they’d limit the king-like authority Tony Evers used to increase property taxes."