Bluffton, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Peaceful protests across the nation will take place for No Kings Day on October 18, challenging corporate influence and authoritarianism in democracy. Locations include Bluffton and Beaufort, with anticipated participation ranging from five to seven million. Law enforcement will monitor the events, enforcing mask policies while ensuring public safety. The American Civil Liberties Union supports the protests as expressions of First Amendment rights amidst varied political opinions.
Bluffton, South Carolina – On Saturday, October 18, protests are set to occur across the nation in response to perceived authoritarianism and corporate influence on democracy, collectively referred to as No Kings Day. These events will feature peaceful gatherings aimed at challenging the erosion of democratic values, with over 2,500 protests anticipated in locations ranging from major cities like New York to small towns such as East Glacier Ridge, Montana. Organizers expect between five and seven million participants nationwide.
In Bluffton, the protest will take place at the Beaufort County Government Center, while a concurrent gathering will occur at Beaufort City Hall. Local authorities, including the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, will maintain a police presence at these events. Protesters are allowed to wear masks solely for medical reasons, as per South Carolina and Georgia laws, which strictly prohibit facial coverings that obstruct identity, originally enacted to counteract KKK activity.
As protests unfold in Bluffton and Beaufort, additional gatherings are planned for nearby areas including Savannah, Richmond Hill, Statesboro, and Rincon. The No Kings events emerge as a reaction to the policies and actions perceived as authoritarian under President Donald Trump. While some politicians characterize these protests as “Hate America” rallies, others uphold them as vital expressions of First Amendment rights. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) highlights that individuals do not require a permit to protest unless they obstruct traffic or access to buildings.
Participants are permitted to record videos and photographs in public spaces, provided they comply with state laws regarding audio recording. The previous No Kings protest on June 14, 2025, marked opposition to a military parade celebrated on Trump’s birthday, considered by organizers as a “coronation” of authoritarianism. The June protest largely remained peaceful, aside from isolated confrontations and a tragic shooting incident in Salt Lake City.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has voiced condemnation regarding the upcoming protests, while opinions on the matter vary among state governors. For example, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has activated the National Guard in anticipation of protests within the state. Law enforcement in local areas may enforce anti-mask laws strictly, having made arrests during the previous protest for mask violations.
Pre-protest activities, including “sign-making” events, have been organized to mobilize support and readiness ahead of the rallies. The No Kings Day initiative promotes a commitment to peaceful, nonviolent action while emphasizing the significance of public expression protected under the First Amendment.
Key Features of No Kings Day Protests
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Protests | October 18 |
| Locations | Over 2,500 nationwide, including Bluffton, Beaufort, Savannah, Richmond Hill, Statesboro, and Rincon |
| Expected Participation | 5 to 7 million nationwide |
| Local Protests | Beaufort County Government Center and Beaufort City Hall |
| Police Presence | Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office |
| Mask Policy | Allowed only for medical reasons; Halloween masks prohibited |
FAQ Section
What is No Kings Day?
No Kings Day events are organized to peacefully reject authoritarianism, corporate overreach, and the erosion of democracy.
When are the protests scheduled?
Protests are planned on Saturday, October 18, in conjunction with nationwide No Kings protests.
Where will local protests be held?
The Bluffton protest will take place at the Beaufort County Government Center, while the Beaufort event will occur at City Hall.
What are the restrictions on masks during the protests?
Participants are only permitted to wear masks if they have a medical condition; Halloween masks are not allowed. South Carolina and Georgia laws prohibit facial coverings that obstruct a person’s identity.
How many protests are expected nationwide?
Protests are expected to occur at over 2,500 locations nationwide, including cities such as New York and small towns like East Glacier Ridge, Montana.
What was the last No Kings protest about?
The last No Kings protest occurred on June 14, 2025, marking opposition to a military parade celebrated on Trump’s birthday, which organizers deemed a “coronation” of authoritarianism.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort to Host Nationwide Protest Against Authoritarianism
Upcoming ‘No Kings’ Protests Scheduled in South Carolina
No Kings Rally Planned in Beaufort
Beaufort County Gears Up for Municipal Elections
Impact of Federal Government Shutdown in Beaufort County
Bluffton and Beaufort Celebrate Fall with Community Events
Updated Rip Current Warning for Coastal Jasper and Beaufort County
In Memory of Patrick Crowther: A Legacy of Engineering and Community Service
No Kings Coalition Plans Protest Across South Carolina
Beaufort Closes Section of Waterfront Park Due to Structural Issues
Additional Resources
- WJCL: No Kings Day in Savannah, Beaufort, Bluffton
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
- WSAV: Multiple No Kings Protests in Lowcountry
- Google Search: No Kings Day
- Your Island News: No Kings Protest Set for Saturday in Beaufort
- Google Scholar: Protests and Democracy in the United States
- WYFF4: No Kings Protests Near Me in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protest
- WSAV: Local Organizers Speak Ahead of No Kings Protest
- Google News: No Kings Day Protests
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
