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At a "No Kings" rally, protesters voiced alarm over authoritarian drift, the government shutdown, and healthcare cuts. Mary Phillips warned of creeping "king" rule; others cited surging premiums and exclusions for transgender care. Former assistant secretary of defense Shawn Skelly condemned efforts to bar trans service members and said Republicans holding power bear blame for the prolonged shutdown. Participants praised Democratic governors like Gavin Newsom yet pressed national leaders to be bolder, calling for unity and even a general strike. Many vowed to keep organizing, from canvassing to regular demonstrations, until access to care and civil rights are protected.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.