The movement’s website states that the October 18 protests represent a "next wave" of mobilization to "reclaim democracy, reject fascism, and remind [President] Trump that power belongs to the people." Organizers said that the movement is not anti-government, but rather a stand against "authoritarianism, corruption, and the outsized influence of the wealthy elite."

In Cook County, a local "No Kings" rally is scheduled to be held at the Cook County Courthouse at 12 p.m. on October 18. Arrowhead Indivisible, the organizers of the event, have described the rally as a "peaceful day of action" in response to what they state is "increasing authoritarian excesses and corruption of the Trump administration." Other events will take place on the same day in Ely, Cook, Two Harbors, Duluth, and Virginia, and other areas throughout Minnesota.

The October 18 protests follow a national day of action held on June 14, which the movement referred to as "No Kings Day." Organizers claim that over 11 million protesters participated in the nationwide demonstrations. The June events were specifically held on that date to counter a military parade in Washington, D.C.. Generally, they expressed the core message that "President Trump is not above the law."

In Cook County, a "No Kings" rally took place on June 13, organized by Arrowhead Indivisible, which drew approximately 125 attendees. Participants chanted "No Kings, Dump Trump" and displayed signs calling for the removal of the President, the protection of the Boundary Waters, and to "Save Democracy." The protest remained peaceful, with no counter-protesters present.

Other protests in June, such as one scheduled for St. Paul, Minnesota, at the state capital, were reportedly attended by over 10,000 participants, including high-profile state officials like Governor Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison.