Springsteen, Sanders Headline ‘No Kings’ Protest At MN Capitol

ST. PAUL, MN — A major protest at the Minnesota State Capitol on Saturday is expected to draw massive crowds, and some of the biggest names in politics and entertainment.

Organizers say Bruce Springsteen, Bernie Sanders and Jane Fonda are among those scheduled to appear at the “No Kings in the Twin Cities” rally, which has been designated the flagship event of a nationwide protest movement.

The event comes as more than 3,100 demonstrations are planned across all 50 states, with over 9 million people expected to participate nationwide, according to the Associated Press.

Organizers have told a state oversight agency that as many as 100,000 people could converge on the Capitol complex Saturday, a turnout that would exceed last summer’s rally, which drew an estimated 80,000 attendees.

The St. Paul rally is unfolding amid heightened tensions in Minnesota following a federal immigration crackdown and the deaths of two residents shot by federal officers earlier this year.

Saturday’s event runs from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., with three kickoff marches beginning at noon from St. Paul College, Harriet Island and Western Sculpture Park. A main rally program is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. at the Capitol.

Additional scheduled speakers and performers include Joan Baez, Maggie Rogers, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her.

Springsteen is expected to perform “Streets of Minneapolis,” a song written in response to the recent shootings that has become closely tied to the protest movement.

Organizers say the event is focused on democracy and nonviolent action, and participants are expected to follow local laws and avoid bringing weapons.

With multiple marches converging on the Capitol and tens of thousands expected, drivers should anticipate road closures and heavy traffic in and around downtown St. Paul throughout the day.

The rally is one of several “No Kings” events planned nationwide Saturday.