The recent No Kings rally held on October 31, 2025, showcased a diverse coalition of activists uniting to advocate for a common set of goals. Attendees expressed concerns over a range of issues, including healthcare access, equal rights, inflation, and the protection of social programs such as Social Security and Medicare. The rally highlighted a sense of urgency among participants who believe their priorities are under threat.
Historically, the Democratic Party has been characterized as a “big tent” organization, accommodating various groups with differing interests. At the No Kings march, activists from different backgrounds gathered peacefully to underscore the importance of their collective agenda. Participants included veterans, students, seniors, and families, all advocating for policies they believe are vital to their communities.
The atmosphere at the rally was filled with energy, punctuated by handmade signs and costumes that added a festive touch. Attendees engaged in music, singing, and chanting, creating a spirited environment. Many expressed frustration over the current political landscape, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump, whose focus on retribution has overshadowed meaningful policy discussions.
As the crowd assembled, it became evident that the common goal of protecting social programs was a driving force behind the gathering. Activists voiced their commitment to standing against the narrative that labels essential services as “waste” or “fraud.” Instead, they aim to foster dialogue and cooperation among like-minded individuals to address the issues that matter most to them.
In a related matter, the pressing water issues in Saratoga Springs have drawn attention following a study conducted by Barton & Loguidice. The study revealed that the city’s primary water source, Loughberry Lake, has seen a significant reduction in usable water over the last two decades, declining from 5.5 million gallons per day to 4.3 million gallons per day—an alarming decrease of 22%.
Additionally, the study highlighted that 20% to 24% of billable water is lost daily due to leaky pipe connections. The lake is also at risk of harmful algal blooms, exacerbated by rising levels of alkalinity, chlorophyll, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
In light of these findings, B.K. Keramati has emerged as a strong candidate for the position of Commissioner of Public Works, offering a comprehensive plan to address the water crisis. With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and three decades of experience at General Electric, Keramati aims to conduct tests to quantify water loss and explore potential new water sources.
His opponent, Chuck Marshall, has not provided a comparable plan to tackle these critical issues. The ongoing challenges posed by unchecked development and increased tourism have further strained the city’s water resources, making a long-term solution imperative.
In a separate political commentary, Edward Dybas, Jr. of Hagaman, called for Congressional action to address concerns about authoritarianism, drawing parallels between leaders like Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, Kim Jong Un, and Trump. He urged lawmakers to consider the 25th Amendment to the Constitution as a necessary measure to safeguard democracy.
As these events unfold, both the No Kings rally and the water crisis in Saratoga Springs illustrate the diverse challenges and concerns facing communities today, highlighting the importance of active civic engagement and informed leadership.
