Robert De Niro Criticizes Trump at Nationwide No Kings Protest

Mar 31, 2026, 2:22 AM
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Robert De Niro has intensified his condemnation of President Donald Trump during the recent No Kings protests that swept across the United States. Speaking alongside Rev. Al Sharpton at a No Kings Day event in New York on March 28, the Oscar-winning actor articulated his concerns about the current political landscape and the upcoming midterm elections on MS Now.
De Niro remarked, "Our democracy is at stake, period. And this fool is taking it with the fools around him. It's like a surreal dream; it's crazy." He underscored the need for continued pressure until the elections are resolved for the right reasons, stating, "We cannot let up with this guy.".
The actor accused Trump of attempting to divert attention from significant issues, including the Epstein files. De Niro asserted, "If I know anything, I know this guy will try anything because he's crazy. He's not well. He's a damaged person, period. You've got to stand up." This sentiment reflects the frustrations shared by many at the protests, which aimed to unify voices against Trump's administration.
De Niro's remarks came amid a massive turnout, with organizers estimating around 8 million people participating in approximately 3,300 events nationwide on March 28. This turnout surpasses previous demonstrations, including 7 million in October and 5 million at the inaugural protest in June. The No Kings movement addresses various issues, including immigration enforcement, healthcare access, environmental protections, gun control, and war funding.
In response to the protests, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson dismissed the events, stating, "The only people who care about these Trump Derangement Therapy Sessions are the reporters who are paid to cover them." Nonetheless, De Niro remained undeterred, asserting, "My country's at stake. I'm not going to keep my mouth shut, and why should I?".
The No Kings protests featured a lineup of notable celebrities, including Bruce Springsteen, Joan Baez, and Jane Fonda. At a press conference, De Niro articulated the significance of the chants, saying, "When the crowds are chanting 'no kings,' what I'm hearing, as we all know, is 'no Trump.'" This collective voice aims to highlight the perceived threats posed by Trump's presidency.
De Niro further commented on the historical context of presidential power, stating, "There have been other presidents who occasionally tested the limits of their constitutional power, but none have been such an existential threat to our freedoms and security. None, except Trump. He must be stopped, and he must be stopped now." His comments resonate with concerns raised by civil rights organizations regarding Trump's actions, including a controversial executive order aimed at restricting birthright citizenship, which has faced legal challenges.
The actor's passionate address also included a call for peace, urging for "no unnecessary wars that rob our resources, sacrifice our great servicemen and women and slaughter innocents." He vowed to transition from protests to the ballot box to effect change.
As the No Kings protests continue to gain momentum, the engagement of high-profile figures like De Niro highlights the intersection of celebrity influence and political activism in contemporary America. The next steps in this movement will likely play a crucial role in shaping the political discourse leading up to the midterm elections.
The No Kings protests serve not only as a platform for dissent but also as a rallying cry for those advocating for a more equitable and democratic society. De Niro's outspoken nature and commitment to these causes reflect a growing urgency among many Americans regarding the future of their democracy.

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