No Kings: Understanding the Movement Across Montana

A New Phrase on the Plains

If you’ve spent any time driving Montana’s highways lately, you’ve probably seen the phrase “No Kings” on bumper stickers, billboards, or even spray-painted signs near small towns. It’s popped up from Bozeman to Billings, Kalispell, and Missoula, sparking curiosity — and conversation.

The slogan sounds simple, but it’s carried by a range of meanings depending on who you ask. Some see it as a call for individual liberty and government accountability, while others view it as a critique of political power, overreach, or even corporate influence.

Where It Came From

The phrase “No Kings” has roots that go back centuries — a nod to America’s founding ideals of rejecting monarchy and centralized authority. In Montana, though, it’s taken on a life of its own.

Over the past few years, social media posts and local gatherings have amplified the message. Groups using the slogan often describe it as a reminder that no one person or party should hold unchecked power — a message that resonates deeply in a state known for its independent spirit.

How the Movement Took Shape in Montana

In Montana, the “No Kings” rallies have been organized in connection with a national day of action. For example:

• On June 14, 2025, more than two dozen events were planned across Montana, including in Billings, Bozeman, Missoula, Great Falls and Hamilton.

• At the Helena rally at the Montana Tribal Flag Plaza, approximately 1,000 people gathered.

• In Billings, the gathering took place outside the Yellowstone County Courthouse and drew a sizeable group.

• In Kalispell, an estimated 2,000 people attended, though a pedestrian-vehicle accident and some arrests occurred.

• On October 18, 2025, a second wave of “No Kings” events in Montana included small towns and rural areas: for instance, a rally in Hamilton drew more than 700 people, and even very small communities like Polebridge (population ~100) held events.

How Montanans Interpret It

Like many things in Montana, the meaning of “No Kings” depends on who’s holding the sign.

• Some residents associate it with anti-establishment politics, expressing frustration toward both national and state-level leaders.

• Others see it as a symbol of self-reliance, reflecting Montana’s long-standing values of hard work, local control, and skepticism toward authority.

• And for many, it’s not about politics at all — it’s a cultural statement about freedom, community, and staying true to Montana roots.

  

From Stickers to Conversations

Part of what’s made “No Kings” so visible is how grassroots it’s been. There’s no official organization or campaign behind it — it’s more of a shared sentiment that spreads by word of mouth and social media.

Small shops in towns like Livingston and Helena have reported people asking for “No Kings” decals or hats. Meanwhile, online forums have filled with discussions about what the phrase represents — and how it reflects the larger mood in the state.

Why the No Kings movement is Catching On in Montana

Montana has always valued independence, whether that’s in politics, ranching, or outdoor life. In many ways, the “No Kings” movement fits naturally into that mindset.

In a time when people across the country are debating who holds power — and how much of it they should have — the slogan feels especially timely. It’s simple, memorable, and flexible enough that people from very different backgrounds can rally around it.

The Bigger Picture

Whether you see “No Kings” as a political message, a personal motto, or just an interesting bumper sticker, it’s become part of Montana’s modern landscape. It reflects a larger conversation about freedom, leadership, and accountability — ideas that have always shaped life under the Big Sky.

And as Montanans keep debating what it really means, one thing’s clear: this state still values its right to question authority, in every sense of the word.