USA

Thousands march in downtown San Diego for ‘No Kings’ protest

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — As part of Saturday’s nationwide “No to Kings” wave of protests, demonstrators gathered throughout San Diego County and held multiple rallies and marches across the region.

Demonstrations are part of a process move around the country It’s against arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers under the Trump administration, as well as other concerns, including the war with Iran and rising costs of living.

Organizers say more than a dozen events are planned across the county, including a big event at Waterfront Park where attendees began gathering shortly before 10 a.m. Similar marches were held in June and October last year.

According to the San Diego Police DepartmentApproximately 40,000 people gathered in the city center to join the march. Officers remained in the area throughout the large gathering to support public safety and monitor traffic impacts.

A “No to Kings” march is held in downtown San Diego on March 28, 2026. (SkyFox/KUSI in the SKy)
A “No to Kings” march is held in downtown San Diego on March 28, 2026. (SkyFox/KUSI in the SKy)
A “No to Kings” march is held in downtown San Diego on March 28, 2026. (SkyFox/KUSI in the SKy)
A “No to Kings” march is held in downtown San Diego on March 28, 2026. (SkyFox/KUSI in the SKy)

DoorDash launches gas evacuation program for San Diego drivers

Pre-planned roads in the city center were temporarily closed in connection with the protest; these include:

Pacific Highway and W Grape Street
N Harbor Drive at W Grape Street
W Ash Street at Pacific Highway

Later, these roads were reopened to traffic.

Additional demonstrations were held in communities from the South Bay to North County and inland areas including La Jolla, Otay Mesa, El Cajon, La Mesa, Mira Mesa, Escondido, Carlsbad, Oceanside and several other areas.

The local protests are part of a nationwide day of action that includes more than 3,000 events in all 50 states. Millions of people across the country were expected to take part in what organizers described as one of the largest coordinated protest efforts in the country’s history.

The “No to Kings” movement, which began in June 20205, has grown rapidly, with earlier protests drawing millions across the country. Saturday’s demonstrations mark the latest and possibly largest iteration of the movement so far.

Organizers emphasized that the events were peaceful and based on the preservation of democratic values, with many groups coordinating locally to ensure safety and participation.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming video, go to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.