Will we see you at NO KINGS?

Federal Judges, Warning of ‘Judicial Crisis,’ Fault Supreme Court’s Emergency Orders: the lead story in the New York Times on October 11 analyzed the latest of our many crises of democracy. Although we surely had our concerns about the court's constant use of the so-called shadow docket to approve of the extra-constitutional (and even unconstitutional) Trump regime maneuvers, this article (a gift article shared with you) surveyed lower court justices for "their their concerns about risks to the courts’ legitimacy." When asked whether they agreed or disagreed that the "Supreme Court has made appropriate use of the emergency docket since President Trump returned to office," 73% disagreed. Those who disagreed included 37 nominated by Democrats and 10 nominated by Republicans. Five Republicans and one Democrat were neutral on the questions, but 12 Republicans agreed with the statement!

The cases cover a range of issues and are technically temporary because the orders specify that "Trump administration policies should be left in place while they are litigated through the lower courts." But their aggregate effect has been greatly to expand executive power, often with the effect of overturning both precedent and federal laws. Not to mention that these "ok'd for now" policies — like wholesale firing of federal employees and snatching people off the street and putting them in deportation detention — ruin people's lives, families, and even communities. Together with last year's decision conferring imunity on presidents when they are acting in their official capacities, they have unleashed the brazen and lawless behavior we see all around us now. Our only real recourse is to act in opposition — loudly, peacefully, and above all persistently.

I start with this matter because it emphasizes again just how important it is for ordinary citizens like you and me to turn out for the peaceful NO KINGS rallies that will be taking place everywhere on Saturday, October 18. As I did last week, I want to make it dead simple for you to sign up for an event near you. So here's a list of some in the Milwaukee area:

Ozaukee: No Kings Rally, 10:00am - 11:00am
W63N641 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg
“NO KINGS!” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from our rural town squares to dense city blocks uniting people across our county, state and nation to fight the emerging dictatorship… together. Please park behind the gym/city hall. Sign up.

Greenfield: No Kings Rally, 10:00 - 11:30am
South 76th Street & West Layton Avenue, Greenfield
Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS!” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from our rural town squares to dense city blocks uniting people across our county, state and nation to fight the emerging dictatorship… together. Please park behind the gym/city hall. Sign up.

Brookfield Resist: No Kings Rally, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Address upon RSVP
Had enough? Stand with us. Join us in this national day of action on Saturday, October 18th from 11:00am-12:30pm as we protest Trump & his administration. Complete event details will be made known after sign up. Sign up.

No Kings Waukesha, 1:00 - 2:30pm
321 Wisconsin Ave, Waukesha: Sidewalk in front of Cutler Park
Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. Sign up.

No Kings West Bend, 1:00 - 2:30pm
Washington County Government Center, 432 E Washington St, West Bend
Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. Sign up.

No Kings Shorewood, 2:00 - 3:30pm
North Wilson Drive & Capitol Drive, Shorewood
Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. Sign up.

To find others elsewhere in the US, visit the NO KINGS website. It provides a map of all the events that have been registered to date.

Looking forward to elections in Wisconsin, here's what we know about the Wisconsin Supreme Court race on April 7, 2026: Judge Chris Taylor (Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky) declared her candidacy in May 2025, and as of the end of the initial fundraising period (June 30, 2025) had raised $583,933, a record for an initial filing period.

So far, only one other candidate has come forward: Judge Maria Lazar (Facebook and YouTube). In discussing Lazar's candidacy, Hope Karnopp wrote "Lazar is a conservative candidate" (Journal Sentinel, October 1, 2025). Karnopp's article briefly reviews Lazar's previous stances on abortion, voter ID, and Act 10. As assistant attorney general, she represented the state — meaning the Walker administration and the Republican-controlled legislature — in all three cases. Of course no fundraising information is yet available for Lazar's newly formed campaign. Although she claims never to have been a politician — clearly a dig at Taylor — she served in the Walker administration from 2011 - 2015. Her page on Wikipedia states that "during her seven years on the circuit court, she ... continued to raise her profile in conservative legal circles, and was a contributor to the Federalist Society."

Both candidates have been elected to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals where they still sit, although in different districts. During much of Lazar's time as assistant attorney general, Taylor was elected to the Assembly where she served from 2012-2020. If no other candidates come forward, there will be no need for a primary for this race, though there may be other races in your area in which there will be primaries. So mark your calendars now: primary elections will be held on February 17, 2026, and elections for nonpartisan offices on April 7, 2026.

In other Wisconsin news, the Big Ugly Budget Bill (BUBB) that Trump signed into law on July 4, has in effect prevented Planned Parenthood from performing abortions in Wisconsin. When BUBB went into effect on October 1, 2025, Planned Parenthood clinics could no longer provide abortions if it needed Medicaid reimbursements for the other services, like cancer screenings. The law specifies that "abortion providers that receive more than $800,000 in reimbursements from Medicaid, the US government’s insurance program for low-income people, are blocked from participating in the program for one year. That provision is so narrowly tailored that it applies almost exclusively to Planned Parenthood, long a conservative target" (The Guardian, October 1, 2025). Abortions, however, remain available in Wisconsin. As The Guardian explains, "At least two independent abortion providers are still open in Wisconsin."

I apologize for being a day late with the newsletter. And for its brevity this week. Sometimes life just gets in the way.

EVENTS

Thursday, October 16

Rally at the Capitol to End Gerrymandering, 12:00 PM 1:00 PM
Wisconsin State Capitol Building (State Street entrance), Madison
Join the Fair Maps Coalition for a rally at the Capitol to demand an end to gerrymandering! Register. While Wisconsin currently has fair maps, these are only in place until the 2030 Census. We need LEGISLATION to ensure FAIR VOTING MAPS for FUTURE GENERATIONS. Let's show our legislators that we're not waiting around – NOW is the time to act. Speakers to be announced soon! Sponsored by the Wisconsin Fair Maps Coalition – learn more about FMC.

Indivisible: Weekly coming together in community, 2:00 - 3:00pm CDT
Online
The onslaught of news, the chaos coming out of the White House – it’s all meant to overwhelm us. It’s a deliberate strategy to sow confusion and make us believe we are powerless to fight back. The antidote: Coming together in community to process what’s happening, to sift through what’s important and what’s just noise, and coalesce around strategies for fighting back. Join Indivisible co-founders Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin each week, as we carve out an hour to discuss what’s happening and – more importantly – what’s the plan. REGISTER HERE

Weekly Bridge Brigade in Milwaukee, 4:00 - 5:30pm CDT
Lincoln Avenue I-43/94 Overpass
We have a new message every week and people are welcome to come and wave, help us hold upthe letter frames or bring their own signs for the Lincoln Avenue traffic. Join us on Facebook at Bridge Brigade MKE.

Disinformation 101: How to Identify and Fight It 6:30 - 7:30pm CDT
Virtual
Distinguishing real news from fake can be challenging today with bots spreading disinfo far and wide, deep fakes on our feeds and the amplification of bad information by influencers . We all see the impact that disinformation has on politics in our country. Are you ready to take a stand and fight back against it? Join us to learn what exactly is disinformation, how to recognize it and what we can do to fight its spread. See you there! Sign up.

Waukesha Dems Monthly Meeting 7:00 - 8:30pm CDT
Southminster Presbyterian Church, 200 Richard St., Waukesha
Join us for our October Monthly Meeting where we will be hearing from Gubinatorial Canddiate and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley.

Friday, October 17

DeGrowth Cafe at Kuumba Juice and Coffee, 9:00 - 10:30am
Kuumba Juice & Coffee (and via zoom), 274 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee
This event is co-hosted with Dylan Carson, a 2024 engineering grad and a facilitator from the DeGrowth Institute in Chicago. Among other things, Dylan hosts a book club focused on climate solutions related to degrowth, meaning degrowing our economy and consumption patterns to stay within planetary thresholds through creative new solutions. Dylan is offering a "DeGrowth 101"-style presentation and discussion, and has shared a pdf scan of the history of degrowth and key texts, available here. Don't feel pressured to read though — show up ready for this summary of key points if you like. Registration form to receive email for zoom link for those who cannot attend in person. This is an opportunity to explore the entanglements between the relationship-focused ethics of bioregionalism, permaculture traditional Indigenous principles, and an engineer's view of designing degrowth-oriented on-the-ground solutions. Email [email protected] for more info. This event is part of the Regenerate Milwaukee Immersion events scheduled Oct 16-19.

Saturday, October 18

Can’t Afford to Wait: Weekend of Action Friendbank in Shorewood! 9:00 - 10:30am and 10:30am - 12:00pm
Oaks of Shorewood, 3900 Estabrook Pkwy, Shorewood
Join us for our Can’t Afford to Wait Weekend of Action! Prices continue to rise and Wisconsinites are struggling to pay their every day bills because of the GOP's Big Ugly Bill, their tariff tax, and their attacks on workers. We will be reaching out to hear about how these policies are hurting our neighbors and what they need from their representatives. We can't afford to wait - YOU can make a difference! RSVP HERE.

No Kings Rally, 11:00am - 2:00pm
Cathedral Square, 520 E Wells St, Milwaukee
In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings. Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. Sign up to attend.

Support the Milwaukee area coalition through our NO KINGS fund, facilitated through Grassroots North Shore. This fund is solely dedicated to putting on NO KINGS coalition events. Our intent is to organize the most impactful, accessible, and safe events feasible. This often requires necessary costs to procure event infrastructure like stages, sound systems, porta-potties, temporary barriers, safety and security equipment, promotion, and other services. Whatever your contribution, we are grateful for your solidarity. Donate.

We need reliable volunteers to help keep our events safe, non-violent, effective, and accessible. We are currently seeking volunteers for the NO KINGS Rally in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Saturday October 18, 2025. Volunteers who join this list may be contacted about this event and future events. Volunteer.

Monday, October 20

Grassroots Glendale Volunteer Recruitment Phonebank, 5:30 - 7:30pm
6563 N Crestwood Dr, Glendale
Sign up.

Tuesday, October 21

Lunch and Learn: Protect Yourself from Scammers, 12:00 - 1:00pm
Virtual
Are you vigilant and prepared to avoid being scammed? College students as well as their grandparents increasingly face clever scammers. Meet consumer protection outreach specialist Bennet Merens and learn to protect yourself and your family. This is a virtual event and access information will be included in your registration confirmation email. Register.

Why Kids Are Struggling With Their Mental Health, 6:30 - 7:30pm CDT
Virtual
t’s no secret that kids today are facing a mental health crisis. From the fear of gun violence and the stress of poverty to the lasting impact of trauma and the lack of access to care, young people are growing up under immense pressure. But what the media covers about youth mental health does not always reflect reality. Join us for an important and eye opening conversation with psychiatrist Mathilde Ross about why so many kids are struggling right now and what we can do to help. We’ll learn about the biggest factors impacting youth mental health and explore what families, schools, and communities can do to create a stronger foundation of support. We will discuss what steps we can take to help the kids in our lives each and every day. See you there! Sign up.

Tuesday, October 21

Shorewood Resists Weekly Overpass Protest, 4:00 - 5:30pm CDT
Capitol Drive at I-43 (between 8th and 9th), Milwaukee
Bring a sign or hold one of ours. Find updates and more events on Facebook at Shorewood Resists.

Wednesday, October 22

No Tricks, Just Treats: A Democratic Majority Awaits, 5:00 - 6:30pm CDT
Location in Shorewood shared with RSVP
A fundraiser to re-elect Deb Andraca. Please RSVP to [email protected] or (414) 485-5284. Even if you can't attend, you can always make a donation!

Unite and Rise Trainings, 2:30 - 4:00pm CDT
Virtual
Building coalitions means being reflective, resonant, and responsive to the needs of your community. League members are active members in their communities, they know them well and they are advocates for issues concerning elections, voter registration, voter guides, and candidates. As trusted messengers in their communities Leagues have institutional knowledge and the information that excels civic engagement.

To build upon the legacy of the League as the trusted resource of election information, Leagues would benefit from an event that underscores the importance of coalition-building with an emphasis on anchoring diverse lived experience and connecting with voters who might not have access to their local Leagues. It is by way of connecting with these voters that deep coalition is built across country of origin, or socio-economic status, or education level. The League is a lever for connecting the dots as championing voting rights for all in our democracy.

Join, Democracy Truth Project manager, Chelsey Cartwright, Founder and CEO of MOV Strategies, Brencia Berry, and Associate Professor of Political Science at Howard University, Dr. Marcus Board, for a conversation on what intentional coalition-building looks like. How do you build relationships with similar “fight for democracy” organizations that speak to inclusion, expanding access and opportunity, and make space for all of those looking for a seat at the table. Register.

Rally Together to Take Back Power, 6:30 - 7:30pm CDT
Virtual
Looking to cut through the chaos and actually make a difference this year? Want to connect with other badass women who are ready to take action? Join Red Wine & Blue to learn why stopping extremism starts in our own backyards and why local elections are where we have the power. Friend to friend organizing is one of our most powerful tools and we will share how you can use it to win important races in your community. We’ll give you the training and resources you need to make a huge impact in your local races while building power for the future. This is how we fight back! See you there! Register.

Thursday, October 23

Weekly Bridge Brigade in Milwaukee 4:00 - 5:30pm CDT
Lincoln Avenue I-43/94 Overpass
We have a new message every week and people are welcome to come and wave, help us hold upthe letter frames or bring their own signs for the Lincoln Avenue traffic. Join us on Facebook at Bridge Brigade MKE.

The People’s Review of Derrick Van Orden, 5:00 - 6:30pm CDT
Virtual
Some Representatives allow the public to share feedback through open Google reviews, but not Derrick. He doesn’t want constituents to have a platform to voice their opinions, so we’re creating one. Join Dan Machalik of For our Future Wisconsin to share your review of DVO’s job performance, and we’ll publish them on social media to show what the community really thinks. Register.

Lakefront Dems Social 6:00 - 8:00pm CDT
1750 N Lincoln Memorial Drive
Join the Lakefront Dems at the War Memorial Beer Garden! Whether you've canvassed before or are just interested getting involved, bring a friend (or two!) to hear about the great work we've done in past cycles and where we're going. RSVP.

Saturday, October 25

Coffee, Tea & Democracy, 10:00 - 11:00am CDT
Democratic Party of Ozaukee County, 1245 Cheyenne Ave., #103, Grafton
Stop by the Dem office on the last Saturday of every month from 10 - 11am for this new event!
Q: What is it?
A: A fun and safe space where ideas will percolate and tea is spilt.
We provide refreshments. You bring yourself, and a friend. See you there!

Tosa Weekly Peaceful Protest, 12:00 - 1:00pm
Corners of 76th and Bluemound & 76th and North, Wauwatosa

East Castle Saturday Group Protest, 1:00 - 1:30pm
Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.
Meet on the east side of the street, Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.

Save the Date

Thursday, October 30

Saturday, November 1

Tosa Weekly Peaceful Protest, 12:00 - 1:00pm
Corners of 76th and Bluemound & 76th and North, Wauwatosa

East Castle Saturday Group Protest, 1:00 - 1:30pm
Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.
Meet on the east side of the street, Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.

Wednesday, November 5

Fair Maps Activist Monthly Meeting, 7:00 - 8:30pm CDT
Virtual
Fair Maps Activist Monthly Meeting zoom link (this same link will be used for all of 2025): Sign up.

Thursday, November 6

Friday, November 7

courage+ family gala 2025, 5:30pm CDT
Baird Center, 400 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee
This year, we’re not only celebrating 10 years of coming together to support LGBTQ+ youth. The 2025 gala also will mark our inaugural year as Courage+ and, with it, our extended reach beyond Milwaukee. More information and buy tickets.

Saturday, November 8

Tosa Weekly Peaceful Protest, 12:00 - 1:00pm
Corners of 76th and Bluemound & 76th and North, Wauwatosa

East Castle Saturday Group Protest, 1:00 - 1:30pm
Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.
Meet on the east side of the street, Downer Ave, between Bradford Ave and Lake Drive.

Sunday, November 9

What's Happening to the US Economy?11 Does it still work?, 4:30 - 6:00pm CDT
Virtual
The US economy faces increasing headwinds due to the administration's dangerous economic policies. Our panel will explain how the economy works and how to counter the misinformation, manipulation and economic threats we face.

Our Panel of Experts

Dr. William Holahan is an emeritus professor of economics and authors economic policy articles for a variety of local publications.
Luz Sosa is the founder of an organization that provides financial literacy training. She also teaches a wide range of economic topics.
Dr. Michael Rosen is an author and professor who taught economics for 29 years and served as president of the faculty union.

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Eilene Stevens published this page in Newsletter 2025-10-16 22:08:01 -0500

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Will we see you at NO KINGS?

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