As the 2026 midterm elections approach, millions of Americans took to the streets (and parks and sidewalks) to show frustration with the Trump administration and promote democratic participation.

In Newton, that rally was held on the Newton Centre Green. And organizers added a focus to this one. Indivisible Newton and the League of Women Voters took the opportunity to push early voting, as this weekend marked the start of early voting for the Nov. 3 election in Massachusetts.

There were no signs promoting specific candidates on the ballot this year. Signs and chants were dedicated to fighting the federal government, as many democracy advocates have accused the Trump administration of seeking to interfere with the midterms because polling suggests a Democratic takeover of the House and maybe the Senate.

Saturday’s rally was the latest in several “No Kings” protests held nationwide since the Trump administration took office in January 2025. Unlike the others, this one didn’t have any guest speakers. Just a lot of passionate protesters saying, “vote early.”

A man holds a sign during a “No Kings” rally in Newton Centre on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

Newton protesters rally for “No Kings” on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

A woman holds a sign during a “No Kings” rally in Newton Centre on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

Newton’s “No Kings” rally in Newton Centre promoted early voting in the Nov. 3 midterms on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

A man protests with “No Kings” rally in Newton Centre on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

City Councilor Julia Malakie joins the “No Kings” rally in Newton Centre on Oct. 17, 2026. Photo by Bryan McGonigle