Texas Rep. Gene Wu Sponsors “No Kings” Anti-ICE Protest at State Capitol
In two days, on June 14, 2025, the Texas State Capitol in Austin will host the “No Kings” protest, an event opposing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. A Texas State Capitol representative has confirmed that State Representative Gene Wu (D-Houston), chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, is the official sponsor. While Wu has not publicly addressed his role, his longstanding advocacy for immigrant rights suggests a natural fit for this demonstration.
Gene Wu: A Progressive Voice in Texas
Gene Wu, a Chinese-American lawyer, has represented Houston’s diverse District 137 since 2013. Elected chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus in December 2024, he has built a reputation as a fierce critic of Republican policies, especially on immigration and education. In 2021, Wu joined dozens of Democratic lawmakers in a dramatic quorum break, leaving Texas to block GOP-backed voting restriction bills—an action that sparked both praise and controversy. His district, where 71% of residents speak a language other than English at home, drives his focus on protecting immigrant communities.
The “No Kings” Protest
Set for Saturday, June 14, 2025, the “No Kings” protest aims to challenge ICE’s immigration enforcement practices. A Capitol representative’s confirmation of Wu’s sponsorship lends credibility to his involvement, though Wu’s office has yet to release a statement, and Capitol event records offer no further details. The protest echoes Wu’s past efforts, such as his 2017 stand against Texas’ “sanctuary cities” ban and his 2023 opposition to a bill limiting land purchases by citizens from countries like China, which he called discriminatory. While the event’s specific goals remain unclear, it likely targets similar state or federal immigration.
Wu’s leadership as caucus chair comes amid Republican control of 88 Texas House seats following the 2024 elections. He has sought bipartisan cooperation, notably backing Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) for House Speaker in January 2025. Sponsoring “No Kings” may strain these efforts, as Republicans, led by Governor Greg Abbott, push stricter immigration measures, including a 2024 executive order on Chinese influence and bills like SB 17 restricting land sales to certain foreign nationals.
With a Capitol representative confirming Rep. Gene Wu’s sponsorship of the “No Kings” anti-ICE protest on June 14, 2025, the event aligns with his commitment to immigrant rights. Yet, Wu’s silence and the lack of detailed records leave questions about the protest’s scope. As Saturday approaches, statements from Wu or Capitol authorities may shed light on this significant demonstration in Austin