By R.J. Morales | TX3DNews.com
On June 14, Collin County Democrats will take to the streets for the NO KINGS rally — a protest they hope isn’t just about waving signs, but about building momentum in one of Texas’s most reliably red districts. Could their efforts signal a political shift in TX-03, or will it remain symbolic?
The event, organized by the Collin County Democratic Party (CCDP) in partnership with local and national activists, is part of a national day of action pushing back against what organizers describe as authoritarian overreach by President Trump and his allies. The rally will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the intersection of Hwy 380 and US 75 in McKinney.
“There are no kings in America,” said Jeremy Sutka, Chair of the CCDP. “We protest not out of anger, but out of deep respect for the American ideal — one the Trump Administration has repeatedly tried to subvert. On June 14th, we stand together to say: this country belongs to the people, not to a king.”
But what’s striking is not just the event itself, but the broader trend behind it. According to Nic Muniz, a precinct chair and active organizer with the CCDP Protest Committee, local Democrats are steadily building an infrastructure of grassroots activism that they believe could reshape the political landscape of TX-03.
Speaking about the broader efforts of the CCDP Protest Committee, Muniz told TX3DNews, “Our series of protests are aimed at standing up for the Constitution, the rule of law, and democracy itself. We’ve been coordinating consistent, organized, and safe events attended by hundreds — Democrats and Republicans alike — who are standing up for our country.”
Muniz emphasized that the protests have not only drawn seasoned activists but have also energized newcomers who are finding fresh reasons to engage. “We’ve had many new volunteers tell us these protests were what encouraged them to get involved locally,” he said. “These events aren’t just about one afternoon — they’re about building momentum, building connections, and showing the community they’re not alone.”
While TX-03 has long been considered a safe Republican stronghold, some local Democrats believe subtle shifts may be emerging — though it’s important to note that no Republican statements or recent polling confirm any real vulnerability. Conversations with several constituents, including some self-described former Republican voters, point to growing dissatisfaction with Congressman Keith Self, particularly regarding veterans’ services, social programs, and federal cuts. Although no major polls have yet signaled a clear change, Democratic organizers argue that the combination of grassroots momentum, community engagement, and vocal dissent may be creating an opening. In the 2024 election cycle, Republicans comfortably held TX-03 with strong voter turnout, underscoring the steep challenge Democrats face if they hope to flip the district.
The CCDP Protest Committee has been organizing bi-weekly protests across McKinney, Allen, Plano, and Frisco. Organizers say the goal isn’t just protest for protest’s sake — it’s about connecting local residents with like-minded people, amplifying shared concerns, and transforming passion into votes.
Muniz offered a telling example: during a recent protest, two young men initially approached skeptically, asking why demonstrators were waving American flags while protesting Trump’s policies. But after a respectful conversation, they left more informed about both local issues and Democratic CD-3 candidate Evan Hunt. “The ability to organize and speak with our neighbors is an incredible tool for preserving democracy,” Muniz said.
As June 14 approaches, the question remains: is all this activity just symbolic, or does it signal a real shift in the political winds of TX-03? For now, Democrats are betting that even in a historically red stronghold, persistent organizing, local engagement, and visible dissent could lay the groundwork for meaningful change — though it remains speculative until supported by polling or election outcomes.
For more details about the NO KINGS rally or local volunteer opportunities, visit www.collindemocrats.org.
TX3DNews reached out to Congressman Self’s office for comment but did not receive a response by publication time.