“No Kings” rallies and voter-engagement events are taking place across the Houston area Saturday, with organizers encouraging residents to make a plan to vote ahead of the November election.
The events are part of a nationwide “No Kings: Vote Early” mobilization focused on voter participation, election protection and helping eligible voters understand their voting options.
Several gatherings were scheduled throughout the day in Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery and surrounding counties. A rally and march at Houston City Hall is scheduled for 4 to 6 p.m.
Early voting in Texas begins Monday, Oct. 19, and continues through Oct. 30.
Organizers have listed events in several communities across the region, with activities ranging from public rallies to voter education and outreach.
Organizers say the gathering will bring together community groups to encourage voter participation. Activities are also expected to include information about poll watching, ballot curing and other ways to get involved in the election process.
The event brings together women candidates running for Congress and the Texas House. Featured candidates include Laura Jones, running for U.S. Congressional District 8, and Dr. Darlene Breaux, Stefanie Boyd and Sara McGee, running for Texas House districts 149, 126 and 132, respectively.
Organizers say the gathering is intended to give residents an opportunity to hear from candidates and discuss issues such as public education, health care, infrastructure and flood mitigation.
The mobilization encouraged residents to prepare for early voting and learn about their options for participating in the election.
Other events were scheduled in Cypress, Katy, La Porte, League City, Spring Branch and Greater Clear Lake, among other communities. Some locations require advance registration to obtain the address.
The “No Kings” movement has organized demonstrations across the country over concerns about political power and government accountability. Saturday’s “Vote Early” theme places a greater emphasis on turning civic engagement into voter participation ahead of the midterm elections.
Organizers say the events are nonpartisan and intended to encourage all eligible voters to make their voices heard.
However, individual events may feature candidates or organizations with specific political affiliations. The Women of the West gathering, for example, features Democratic candidates.
The national movement also emphasizes nonviolent action, lawful conduct and de-escalation in the event of confrontations with people who disagree with participants.
