The chaos in New Jersey got even more bizarre this past weekend as thousands of people showed out for a No Kings demonstration against President Trump, which was backed by the same voters that re-elected Governor Phil Murphy in 2021.
It’s the Twilight Zone now.
X user Morgan Marek’s post went viral, drawing attention to the movement’s alleged hypocrisy. The No Kings phrase is frequently linked to anti-authoritarian emotions, especially against individuals such as President Donald Trump.
Marek’s essay contrasts the anti-monarchical rhetoric with what she perceives to be excessive government control by humorously listing a number of requirements and prohibitions.
It seemed to be aimed squarely at New Jersey and Governor Phil Murphy, who is known as King Philip by many in the state.
The post concludes with the following incisive query: The hypocrisy is unbelievable. Who is the tyrant in this situation? Although no particular leader is mentioned, the post encourages a closer examination of government, particularly in light of New Jersey under Governor Phil Murphy, where some contend the state has experienced more oversight than under Trump’s federal policies.
The No Kings Irony
The term “No Kings” is a modern critique of perceived authoritarianism that reflects the American Revolution’s rejection of monarchy. The notion that such actions run counter to anti-king feeling is parodied by Marek’s list of masks, lockdowns, vaccination requirements, company closures, and gathering restrictions. The article makes the argument that although demonstrators may target Trump, the true overreach may occur closer to home, especially with state-level officials like Murphy.
Trump vs. Murphy: A Comparative Lens
Murphy and other state governors had to handle a lot of the federal government’s reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic during Trump’s administration. Despite frequently disagreeing with public health professionals, Trump’s administration advocated for individual liberties without enacting national regulations.
In contrast, New Jersey had extended lockdowns, obligatory mask regulations, and company shutdowns that severely damaged local economies under Democratic Governor Murphy, who enacted among of the most stringent policies in the country. For example, capacity restrictions continued well into 2021, and indoor dining was prohibited for months.
Murphy also came under fire for refusing to grant some religious exemptions and for imposing social distancing policies that kept families apart while they were in the hospital—a sentiment Marek agrees with when he says, “Your family members will die alone.”
According to data from 2020–2021, small businesses in New Jersey reported greater closure rates than in many other states, indicating that the state’s economic recovery trailed behind the national average. Despite the No Kings rhetoric directed at Trump, critics contend that Murphy’s measures, which were based on public health, went beyond federal guidelines and disregarded local participation, portraying him as a king in practice.
The Dismantling of Hypocrisy
The selective anger exposes the hypocrisy Marek exposes. Trump was a divisive personality who served as a catalyst for the No Kings demonstrations, although he had little control over state-level policy. But unlike Trump’s more general objectives, Murphy had direct authority and issued executive orders that had a more tangible impact on New Jerseyans’ daily lives. Murphy’s snitch line for reporting lockdown violations is referenced in the post along with a hotline to report your neighbor, which stoked feelings of dictatorship.
Who s the Tyrant?
Although Marek’s question goes unanswered, the analogy implies that local leaders should be examined just as closely as national ones.
Trump’s approach drew criticism, but Murphy’s active leadership in New Jersey may have placed more immediate constraints.
If the No Kings movement is sincere, it could be best aimed at state capitals, which are where executive power is most noticeable.
The paradoxes underlying anti-authoritarian protests are reflected in Morgan Marek’s post, which acts as a provocative mirror. The lived experience under Governor Murphy in New Jersey indicates a deeper irony, even though Trump is still seen by many as an example of overreach. Looking beyond federal leaders to the statehouses where mandates are most felt is necessary for genuine opposition to kings. This discussion highlights the necessity for balanced administration that is neither overbearingly punishing nor monarchical as New Jersey continues to rebuild.
