No Kings Protest Reaches Franklin County

              Approximately 200 people gathered in Franklin County to take part in the nationwide 'No Kings' protest, standing in opposition to recent immigration raids and other newly enacted policies. Local residents, alongside demonstrators from across Tennessee, united to voice their concerns about the current administration’s approach to immigration and governance.

              The group assembled in the lot at the corner of College and S. 2nd St. in Winchester, holding signs and playing music. The demonstration drew attention from passers-by, some honking or waving in response—whether in support or opposition. While most attendees came from Franklin and nearby counties, others had made a day of participating in multiple protests across Middle Tennessee.

              Protestors carried signs with slogans like “No Kings Since 1776” and “No One Is Illegal on Stolen Land” emphasizing their stance of opposition against the current administration.  The demonstration highlighted concerns on immigration policies, federal spending cuts, and the deployment of military forces in American cities.

              Victoria Broderick, who is preparing to challenge Congressman Scott DesJarlais for the District 4 seat in the 2026 election, seized the opportunity to connect with the community during the demonstration. Having previously ran against DesJarlais in 2024 but falling short, Broderick used the gathering to share her message and rally support for her campaign.

              “I never thought I would be here.”, stated Broderick.  “But I decided in 2016 that I couldn’t stay silent anymore because fascism was on the horizon.  And fascism is here today.”

              She stated that she got involved in the Lincoln County Democratic Party and decided to become even more involved after the overturning of Roe v. Wade.  She opened up about her personal experience with a failed IUD contraceptive and miscarriage, explaining how that personal chapter in her life became a driving force behind her political motivation.

              “The thing that they said was written law, that they wouldn’t get rid of it.”, said Broderick.  “And here we are, in a Roe-less world.  I became county chair in Lincoln County, Tennessee and remained chair for the last two years, until I learned that DesJarlais was going to run unopposed.  And that’s how I ended up here today.  Activism is a muscle.  You have to work it.  If you don’t, fascism happens.”

Victoria Broderick, who will be running against Congressman Scott DesJarlais in the upcoming election next year, walks with her son during the No Kings protest in Winchester last Saturday.

              Broderick urged those in attendance to choose a cause they’re passionate about and actively challenge the current administration. She emphasized the importance of civic engagement, stating that the country’s current state is a result of too many Democrats failing to remain involved in the political process.

              “Your decision has to be one of two.”, said Broderick.  “Be a player on the field and help me get elected and help me turn this around.  Or be the turf that the Republicans walk on.  Because that is what they want.  They want you to feel like you’re the turf.  They want you to feel like there is no hope and no power.”

            The No Kings protesters weren’t the only ones downtown making their voices heard. Just across the street, the Franklin County chapter of the National Federation of Republican Women held their own celebration, honoring Flag Day, the birthday of the United States Army, and President Donald Trump's birthday. With smiles and waves, they proudly displayed American flags to passing traffic.

The Franklin County Chapter of the National Federation of Republican Women celebrate Flag Day and the United States Army's birthday as they wave flags and say hello the community members driving by.

Nearby, another small group of friends and families gathered to commemorate Flag Day, the Army’s founding, and President Donald Trump’s birthday. Cheerfully waving flags, they stood in patriotic solidarity as cars rolled by, adding to the mix of voices and demonstrations that filled the streets.

The demonstrations in Franklin County mirrored the larger national conversation, with voices from opposing sides gathering downtown to express their beliefs. As protesters rallied against current policies, others celebrated American traditions, highlighting the deep divisions and passionate convictions shaping the political landscape. Despite differing viewpoints, both groups stood firm in their expressions of freedom.

Family and friends gather downtown to celebrate Flag Day and the birthday of the United States Army.