JOHNSTON COUNTY – Approximately 500 people gathered in Clayton Town Square on Saturday as part of the national “No Kings” day of protest, joining thousands across the country to voice concerns about what organizers call an “excessive concentration of executive power” in the presidency.
The Clayton event featured speakers from advocacy organizations including Veterans for Responsible Leadership, Down Home NC, Moms Demand Action, and JoCo Pride. Participants carried signs and chanted messages supporting democratic values, voting rights, and governmental accountability.
While the protest remained peaceful, law enforcement maintained a heavy presence throughout the event. A small number of counterprotesters were also present but did not disrupt the demonstration.
In addition to the Clayton gathering, a few dozen “No Kings” demonstrators rallied outside the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield, holding signs along Market Street to reach passing motorists…