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Thousands gathered Saturday behind the Connecticut State Capitol and on Capital Avenue for one of more than 2,600 No Kings rallies taking place nationwide — a coordinated, non-violent movement meant to reaffirm democratic principles and reject what organizers describe as authoritarian overreach from the Trump administration.

Organizers said Saturday’s event drew about 7 million nationwide, making it the largest single day protest in US history.

An estimated 10,000 people came to the state Capitol in Hartford on Saturday to call for opposition to President Donald Trump’s changes in federal policy, one of dozens of “No Kings” protests held across Connecticut.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told a crowd in Hartford that he would continue to “stand up for health care” and that Democrats would not “back down” and be “intimidated” or “bullied” by Republicans. 

U.S. Rep. John Larson, D-1st District, condemned the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Connecticut towns. 

With unified chants “this is what democracy look like” echoing throughout the grounds of the State Capitol in Hartford, thousands of people came out on Saturday and rallied with a clear message: There are no kings in America.

The Hartford rally, part of 50 organized by groups across Connecticut, was part of the larger “No Kings” movement nationwide. Organizers say it is a joyful celebration of democracy, America and its flag because what’s needed now.