Protesters Rally Against Trump at West Virginia Capitol
On October 18, 2025, hundreds of residents gathered at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston to protest against President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies. This demonstration was part of the nationwide No Kings protest movement, with thousands of events organized across all 50 states.
The rally in Charleston was coordinated by several organizations, including the West Virginia Citizen Action Group, the state chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Charleston branch of the NAACP, and the grassroots nonprofit West Virginia United. Participants convened at the Robert C. Byrd Federal Courthouse before marching approximately two miles to the Capitol, where they were joined by additional protesters.
Voices of Concern from a Diverse Crowd
As the event unfolded, attendees displayed a variety of protest signs, some featuring biting satire directed at Trump and his policies, while others appealed for the protection of democracy and social justice. The crowd included people of all ages, with parents pushing strollers alongside elderly residents who settled under trees, holding their signs.
Kathy Stalnaker, a 65-year-old retired teacher, shared her motivation for attending the protest. “I’m afraid for my children’s and grandchildren’s futures,” she said. Stalnaker, who previously participated in the teacher strikes in 2018 and 2019, expressed her growing concern about the state of democracy in the United States. “Our country can’t go down the toilet this way. We’ve worked hard to establish this democracy. Now, we’ve got to fight for it,” she added.
Stalnaker described the difficulty she faced in deciding what message to convey on her protest sign, reflecting the turmoil many feel about current political circumstances. “I’m sick of this fear and these threats,” she said.
Concerns Over Recent Federal Actions
Demonstrators voiced their opposition to recent actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and concerns about potential cuts to healthcare and social safety nets, which could severely impact vulnerable populations. Protesters also highlighted the risks faced by marginalized communities, including people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals.
“It really does feel like people are in danger right now, real danger,” remarked Cheryl Pinckney, who attended the rally with her husband, Don Pinckney. The couple, who have lived in West Virginia for over 28 years, noted an increase in political polarization and personal fear. “Politics didn’t feel as polarizing in the past, but honestly now we’re afraid,” Don Pinckney stated.
The atmosphere at the protest remained peaceful, with participants chanting slogans and expressing their concerns. Law enforcement from the West Virginia State Police, Charleston Police Department, and State Capitol Police monitored the proceedings from across Kanawha Boulevard.
Speakers at the rally included representatives from various nonprofit organizations, as well as Del. Mike Pushkin, a Democratic member of the West Virginia House of Delegates. Pushkin engaged the crowd by inviting older attendees to clap in recognition of their experiences and wisdom. “These are the folks who know that democracy does not defend itself. We are not subjects, we are citizens. In America, we have no kings,” he stated.
The No Kings protest in Charleston reflected a growing sentiment among many Americans concerned about the direction of their nation under Trump’s leadership. As citizens raised their voices in unison, their calls for justice and democracy echoed throughout the Capitol grounds, emphasizing their commitment to engage in the democratic process.
