Hundreds gather in Naples for 'No Kings' protest

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

Hundreds of protesters lined up along Tamiami Trail in Collier County as part of the "No Kings" protest, waving American flags, holding up signs, and chanting to make sure their voices are heard in protest to President Donald Trump's administration.

"It is our obligation to protest against this obscene government, and I am so happy to see so many of my fellow Americans out at this rally," said Sandy Harris from Naples.

"I'm mainly here for my children and grandchildren. Because I could die tomorrow. But they're going to have to live with this misery," said another protester.

What is 'No Kings'?

According to the organization's website, No Kings is an event and protest held to remind the nation that America has "no kings." This is the third series of nationwide protests held since Trump took office in January.

In Naples, Peggy Olson wore an outfit inspired by "The Handmaid's Tale" to express her patriotism.

"I don't want to go backwards. And I see us going backwards. I see men taking away our rights, you know. Now, I don't have the right to be able to say what I can and can't do with my body. And I don't think a man should have any say in that whatsoever," Olson said.

In the crowd, a red MAGA hat was spotted. Bob Mullet, a proud Republican, exercised his right to free speech.

"So far, it's been peaceful. Nobody's said anything, but what they're doing is supporting the Mullahs. They're taking the other side. And whatever the cost of this war is, it's much cheaper than an atomic bomb exploding over New York City, which is what they promised to do," Mullet said.

For many, the "No Kings" rally shows that speaking up can make a difference.

"Silence will not help us. We must speak up, and you can't be afraid," said Eileen Osunski from Naples.

Protests stretch the Gulf Coast

"No Kings" protests spanned the Southwest Florida Saturday morning, with one held in Charlotte County that saw signs and a large upside-down American flag.

Another protest in Lee County saw a large crowd gather on the sidewalk of US 41 at Daniels Parkway. Protesters could be seen dancing, chanting and waving to passing cars.

Click here to watch Gulf Coast News' coverage of the protest in Lee County.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.