“No Kings” Returns to Conroe with Smaller Crowd, Fewer Costumes and Flags

On Saturday afternoon, approximately 300 to 600 demonstrators gathered along both sides of State Highway 105 as the No Kings movement made its presence felt once more in Conroe. However, the turnout seemed less robust compared to June, with fewer costumed demonstrators and eye-catching signs, and the weekly farmers market noted a decline in vendors associated with the event's presence.

At approximately noon, demonstrators assembled between North San Jacinto and Main Streets, organized by local groups connected to “We Rise Up.” In contrast to the initial Conroe demonstration earlier this summer, there were no Palestinian flags in sight, nor were there any signs displaying “8647,” a previously mentioned code that signifies “kill President Trump.” 

A reduced number of officers was noted: personnel from the Conroe Police Department collaborated with the Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, yet there was no visible drone surveillance or significant tactical units present.

CPD Chief Jon Buckholtz, located at North Thompson Street and Hwy 105, reported that he met earlier this week with protest organizers, commending their collaborative attitude. “They’re quite committed to ensuring everyone's safety in this area,” Buckholtz remarked as demonstrators shouted phrases like “Show me what democracy looks like … this is what democracy looks like” and “Hey, hey, ho, ho, Donald Trump has got to go.”

The audience predominantly consisted of older white individuals, with a blend of younger and minority attendees present. Costumes that were once a staple of earlier gatherings—unicorns, dragons, inflatable chickens—were notably absent this time, lending the event a more somber atmosphere. Many expressed worries about what they saw as a gradual shift toward authoritarianism and the possible conclusion of free elections. 

Protester Christopher Whitten expressed, “I believe many individuals present are fearful of the authoritarian tendencies of the current situation … They worry there could be covert law enforcement or a secret police force, and it’s uncertain whether those in uniform are legitimate officers.”

While the demonstrators courteously engaged with law enforcement, responding to inquiries from CPD Sgt. Troester in the traffic-control area, certain businesses and vendors in the downtown region were experiencing the repercussions. The weekly farmers market, a staple since 2021 that typically features 45 booths, declined this week to only 28 participants. Market organizer Farralyn Withrow characterized the atmosphere as “‘a ghost town’… This week, we have reduced to 28 booths from our usual 45, and downtown businesses have experienced a decline in foot traffic as well.

We Rise Up representatives addressed the market's concerns and revealed intentions to relocate future events one block north to minimize disruption. “We definitely aimed to be considerate of the businesses,” remarked local organizer Vicki Scott, highlighting the change made. 

Following the conclusion of the protest, organizers assured that cleanup and signage removal would take place, while Conroe police confirmed that there were no reported incidents. The event wrapped up with a subdued atmosphere as the city center witnessed yet another instance of community expression and local business adjustment.

Organizers estimate that attendance varied between 300 and 600 participants, significantly lower than earlier events, indicating a possible change in both structure and community influence.

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