Gov. Greg Abbott is deploying the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas National Guard to Austin ahead of nationwide “No Kings” protests planned for Saturday, October 18.
The event is linked to left-wing Antifa groups that have staged anti-Trump demonstrations across the country.
“Violence and destruction will never be tolerated in Texas,” said Abbott. “Today, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas National Guard to deploy all necessary law enforcement officials and resources to ensure the safety of Austin residents. Texas will deter criminal mischief and work with local law enforcement to arrest anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property.”
According to the governor’s office, DPS law enforcement personnel, including state troopers, Special Agents, and Texas Rangers—backed by aircraft and other tactical assets—will be surged into the Austin area. The state’s Homeland Security Division is also monitoring for potential links to extremist or terrorist organizations.
The “No Kings” movement describes itself as an anti-authoritarian protest effort opposing what organizers call “executive overreach” under President Donald Trump. Similar demonstrations in June drew large crowds nationwide, including in major Texas cities.
Abbott’s latest order marks a repeat of his summer deployment, when state police and Guard troops were stationed around the Capitol and downtown Austin during prior protests.
President Trump recently designated Antifa a domestic terrorist organization.
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