Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt, U.S. Senator representing Missouri, shared a series of posts on October 18, 2025, expressing skepticism about the origins and alliances behind the "No Kings" movement.

In one post, Schmitt highlighted union support for the movement: "The list of supporting organizations for No Kings also boasts some of the most powerful unions in the nation, including American Federation of Teachers (led by President Randi Weingarten!) and SEIU. That means organizers, volunteers and mobilization networks." (October 18, 2025).

He followed with criticism regarding media coverage and planning behind such efforts: "This is how it usually goes with the Left. Tomorrow, the media is going to regale us with stories about this totally spontaneous, 'grassroots' uprising. Don't believe it. The truth is, every detail is meticulously planned by some of the most powerful political forces in America." (October 18, 2025).

Schmitt further asserted connections between mainstream Democratic groups and more radical organizations: "Then again, other partners include the Communist Party USA (CPUSA). This is the last nail in the coffin of the idea that there's some firewall of separation between the radicals and the mainstream Left: Establishment Democrats working side-by-side with revolutionary communists." (October 18, 2025).

The "No Kings" initiative has attracted attention for its broad coalition of supporters among labor unions such as SEIU and AFT—major players in national labor organizing. These unions are known for their extensive networks and history of political activism.

Debates around grassroots authenticity versus organized campaigning have been recurring themes in American politics. Partnerships or alliances between mainstream parties and more ideologically extreme organizations have historically fueled partisan criticism.