Big crowds are expected to take to the streets in Miami and Fort Lauderdale this weekend as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protests. The rallies are meant to push back against what organizers see as creeping authoritarianism—and they’re timed to coincide with former President Donald Trump’s military-style birthday parade in Washington, D.C.
But Florida officials are making one thing crystal clear: protest peacefully, or be ready for serious consequences.
South Florida Braces for Crowds
Several major protests are planned across South Florida on Saturday, including in downtown Miami at the Torch of Friendship, Miami Beach’s Pride Park, and Hollywood’s North Young Circle. Organizers are expecting thousands to turn out, making this one of the largest anti-Trump events in the state since his presidency.
The protests are part of a broader effort by the “50501 movement,” supported by groups like the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, and Sen. Bernie Sanders. Their goal? To send a strong message against Trump’s plans for a public military display, and what they describe as a dangerous slide toward authoritarian rule.
Across the country, similar protests are planned in nearly 2,000 cities and towns—rural and urban alike.
State Leaders Issue Stern Warnings
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier didn’t mince words at a press conference ahead of the weekend.
“We do not allow rioting in the state of Florida,” he said. “If you break the law, you’re going to do time.”
Standing alongside him, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey went even further, saying anyone who attacks law enforcement during these protests will face deadly force.
“If you throw a brick, a firebomb, or point a gun at one of our deputies, we will kill you—graveyard dead,” Ivey said, his tone leaving no room for interpretation.
Their remarks reflect Florida’s strict stance on protests turning violent. In 2021, the state passed tougher anti-riot laws following the unrest that erupted after George Floyd’s death.
What Organizers Are Saying
Despite the warnings, organizers of the “No Kings” rallies say they’re focused on keeping things peaceful. Many of the demonstrations will include trained volunteer marshals and legal observers to help de-escalate any tensions.
“People want to speak up—but they also want to do it safely,” said one organizer from Miami. “This isn’t about chaos. It’s about protecting democracy.”
Still, with tensions running high and emotions on edge, local leaders are preparing for the possibility that things could get out of hand.
A Flashpoint Moment
The timing of these protests is no accident. Saturday marks Trump’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army—two events the former president plans to celebrate with a grand military parade in D.C.
Critics see the display as more about personal power than patriotism. They say the image of tanks and troops marching under Trump’s watch sends the wrong message about American values.
In response, the “No Kings” movement wants to offer a different kind of patriotic display: one based on free speech, civic participation, and peaceful resistance.
Local Impact and National Eyes
In Miami and Fort Lauderdale, streets will be watched closely this weekend—not just by law enforcement, but by people across the country.
These protests come just as the Justice Department has ramped up efforts to prosecute anyone who commits violence during demonstrations. Cities like Los Angeles have already seen unrest over recent ICE raids, prompting increased security in other protest hotspots like Texas and Missouri.
For now, all eyes are on how Florida will handle the weekend. Peaceful rallies could send a strong message of unity and democratic values. But even a few violent incidents could shift the narrative and bring harsh consequences for those involved.
