‘Standing up for democracy’: Atlanta ‘No Kings’ rally draws Trump critics ahead of midterms

Standing behind a big, blue “Defending Democracy” sign, Kelsea Bond addressed a gathering at a park in midtown Atlanta on Saturday at the start of a “No Kings” rally, one of many across the US, as the country prepares to go to the polls in the November 3 midterm elections. “We need to build a society that works for the working class, not the billionaires,” said Bond. “Yeah!” many in the crowd responded. “Right!” added a woman holding a “In 2026: Dump Trump” placard. “We need an economy, we need a society that is democratically run by working people because we keep this economy running,” said Bond, a labour organiser, politician and elected member of the Atlanta City Council. Atlanta City Council member Kelsea Bond addresses a "No KIngs" rally at Piedmont Park, Atlanta on October 17, 2026. © Leela Jacinto, France 24 At 33, Bond is the youngest serving councillor and its first Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) member. A political group championing progressive issues, the DSA is not a political party. Bond ran for the District 2 seat on the city council last year as an independent candidate. DSA members are focused on getting the Democrats to address progressive issues, sparking ...