HELENA, Mont. – A new rule implemented by Montana state government prohibiting permits for rallies on the Capitol grounds during weekends is drawing criticism from organizers of planned protests, including the upcoming “No Kings” demonstration. The change, which went into effect this week, effectively thwarts the ability of groups to hold large-scale events at the Capitol on Saturdays and Sundays.
The timing of the rule change has raised concerns among activists, who view it as a direct attempt to suppress dissent. Organizers of the “No Kings” rally, a nationwide demonstration planned as a counter-event to the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary parade in Washington, D.C., and coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, say the new regulation forces them to relocate or significantly scale back their planned demonstration in Helena. The “No Kings” movement, also known internationally as the “No Dictators” or “No Tyrants” protests, gained prominence in June 2025, with demonstrations occurring in over 2,100 cities and locations across the country, drawing an estimated four million protesters.
New Restrictions on First Amendment Rights?
The new rule restricts the ability to obtain permits for rallies on state Capitol grounds during weekends. While the specific language of the rule and the rationale behind it remain under scrutiny, organizers argue it infringes upon their First Amendment rights to peaceful assembly. The Montana Free Press reported on June 14, 2025, that similar protests were taking place in other Montana cities, including Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Great Falls, and Hamilton, as part of the “No Kings” movement. The rule change comes amid a backdrop of increasing political polarization and ongoing protests against the second term of President Trump.
Pat Cotter, a former Montana Supreme Court justice, speaking at a rally earlier this year, emphasized the importance of the separation of powers, stating, “For nearly 250 years, this separation of powers has withstood the test of time. But now Donald Trump sets out to dismantle our constitutional protections and consolidate all power in himself.” This sentiment reflects the broader concerns driving the “No Kings” protests, which focus on what organizers perceive as democratic backsliding in the United States.
Impact on the “No Kings” Rally
The “No Kings” rally was initially planned to take place at the Montana Tribal Flag Plaza at the Capitol in Helena. Roughly 1,000 people gathered at that location on June 14, 2025, according to the Montana Free Press, organized primarily by Helena’s local chapter of Indivisible. The rally featured speeches from community organizers, nonprofit directors, and former elected officials. Now, organizers are scrambling to find alternative locations or adjust their plans to comply with the new restrictions.
Scott Payton, a Helena resident who attended the June rally, expressed his frustration with the current political climate, stating, “This country is so out of control,” and voicing concerns about potential cuts to social programs and increased activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Recent ICE raids in Los Angeles sparked city-wide demonstrations, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy under the Trump administration.
The second Trump administration has implemented a series of controversial immigration policies, including the Laken Riley Act, Executive Order 14159, and proposals regarding birthright citizenship. These policies, along with broader concerns about the administration’s approach to immigration, have fueled protests and activism across the country. The Daily Montanan reported on June 14, 2025, that nearly 30 rallies were planned across Montana as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protest.
What’s Next for Protests in Montana?
The immediate future of the “No Kings” rally in Helena remains uncertain. Organizers are exploring legal options and considering alternative locations for the demonstration. The new rule raises broader questions about the state government’s commitment to protecting First Amendment rights and its willingness to accommodate peaceful protests. It remains to be seen whether this policy will be challenged in court or if it will set a precedent for future restrictions on public gatherings at the Montana Capitol.
This is a developing story. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
