💌 Good News from the Resistance, November 2-8, 2025

Welcome to How to Resist, a blueprint for resistance based on nonviolence, mutual aid, and community building for ordinary people who want to save democracy.

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Dear Resisters,

This week, voters issued an unmistakable rejection of Trumpian authoritarianism and embraced a vision of democracy rooted in justice, inclusion, and accountability. In a stunning rebuke to Trump’s agenda, Democrats swept key races: Zohran Mamdani is now mayor of New York City, Abigail Spanberger made history as Virginia’s first woman governor, and California voters passed Prop 50, a redistricting measure that could flip five congressional seats. Maine rejected voter ID laws, and Virginia Democrats picked up over 10 seats in the House.

These victories came as Trump demanded the end of mail-in voting, the repeal of the filibuster to cement one-party rule, and made it clear he expects congressional republicans not to negotiate with Democrats, even as the government shutdown became the longest in US history.

This week, thousands gathered in D.C. for an anti-fascism rally, buoyed by Tuesday’s electoral victories. Students and faculty at over 100 universities held a day of action to resist Trump’s ideological takeover of higher education, veterans are organizing nationwide “Vets Say No” protests for Vetrans Day on November 11th, and in Florida, faith and community leaders entered their 14th week of vigils to protest Trump’s immigration policies and the building of a detention center in the Florida Everglades.

It was a pretty good week, with a lot of wins we desperately needed, and we should let this momentum give us the courage for whatever comes next. The people have spoken, and will continue to speak, and act, and vote, until we have our democracy back.

You can read about these stories and more that you may have missed from this week below. In the meantime, please take care of yourselves and each other, and we’ll talk again soon!

Yours,

M-.

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America Resists

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Democratic Wins Signal Public Pushback Against Trump’s Agenda

In the first major electoral test of Trump’s second term, Democrats scored sweeping victories across the country, flipping governorships in Virginia and New Jersey, winning the New York City mayoral race, and expanding legislative control in key states. Voter turnout surged, especially in areas hit hard by Trump’s policies, such as federal worker layoffs and immigration crackdowns. The election highlighted growing resistance to Trump’s agenda, with candidates like Abigail Spanberger and Zohran Mamdani offering contrasting visions of leadership. Despite Republican efforts to nationalize local races around affordability, exit polls showed widespread disapproval of Trump, suggesting momentum for Democrats heading into the 2026 midterms.¹

Federal Judge Orders Trump Administration to Fully Fund SNAP, Rebukes Political Delay

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to fully fund November’s SNAP benefits by Friday, condemning its partial payments and accusing it of withholding aid for political leverage during the ongoing government shutdown. Judge John J. McConnell Jr. rejected the administration’s claim that funds were being reserved for child nutrition programs, calling the justification implausible and highlighting that those programs are already funded through May. The ruling follows mounting pressure from nonprofits and local governments, as millions of Americans face food insecurity. McConnell emphasized the “irreparable harm” caused by the delay, especially to children, and criticized Trump’s public statements defying the court’s order.²

Judge Blocks Trump’s National Guard Deployment to Portland, Citing Abuse of Power

A federal judge ruled that President Trump unlawfully deployed National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, rejecting the administration’s claim that protests constituted a rebellion. Judge Karin Immergut found no legal basis for the use of military force, stating that the protests were small-scale and did not impede federal law enforcement. The ruling permanently blocks the deployment and marks a significant legal setback for Trump’s broader efforts to send troops into Democratic-led cities. The administration is expected to appeal, potentially escalating the case to the Supreme Court. The decision reinforces limits on presidential authority to use domestic military force.³

Students and faculty at over 100 US universities protest against Trump’s attacks

In a coordinated day of action, students, faculty, and staff at over 100 U.S. universities protested the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape higher education through ideological mandates and funding threats. Organized by Students Rise Up, alongside groups like the Sunrise Movement and educational labor unions, demonstrators rejected the administration’s “compact” offering federal funds in exchange for promoting conservative policies. Protests included walkouts, rallies, and symbolic actions, with demands for academic freedom, protection of marginalized students, and fair labor practices. The movement also targeted billionaire Trump donor Marc Rowan for his role in pushing the compact and influencing education policy. Organizers aim to build toward a nationwide general strike in May 2028, framing the campaign as a defense of democracy and academic independence.⁴

States and Cities Sue Trump Administration Over Student Loan Forgiveness Restrictions

Attorneys general from over 20 states, along with cities, labor unions, and nonprofits, have filed lawsuits against the Trump administration challenging a new rule that restricts eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The rule redefines “qualifying employers” to exclude organizations accused of “unlawful activities,” a move critics say imposes a political litmus test and undermines a program designed to support public servants like teachers, nurses, and social workers. New York Attorney General Letitia James called the rule a betrayal of the program’s original intent, while Boston Mayor Michelle Wu warned it could further burden public workers. The legal challenges aim to block the rule and preserve access to loan forgiveness for millions of Americans serving their communities.⁵

Unions Challenge Trump-Era Loyalty Question in Federal Hiring

Three major federal employee unions have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over a new essay question added to thousands of federal job applications, which asks candidates how they would support the president’s policies. The unions argue that this “loyalty question” undermines the nonpartisan nature of the civil service, violates free speech rights, and pressures applicants to express political allegiance to improve their hiring chances. The lawsuit seeks to block the use of the question, especially as it has appeared in job postings following mass layoffs, such as those at the Department of Education. Despite official claims that the question is optional and not scored, unions cite evidence that responses may influence hiring decisions, raising concerns about politicization of the federal workforce.⁶

Protesters Rally in D.C. After Democratic Wins, Vow Continued Resistance to Trump

Thousands gathered in Washington, D.C., for an anti-fascism protest marking one year since Trump’s election, energized by Democratic victories in key races across the country. Organized by groups like Refuse Fascism and Handmaid Army DC, the rally featured symbolic costumes, speeches, and calls to impeach and remove the president. Protesters viewed the election results as a sign that public resistance is influencing political outcomes, but emphasized that the fight against authoritarianism and executive overreach must continue. Speakers urged ongoing peaceful mobilization, especially in light of the government shutdown and threats to democratic institutions.⁷

Veterans to Hols Nationwide “Vets Say No” Protests Against Trump Policies on November 11th

On Veterans Day, post-9/11 veterans and allied groups will hold coordinated protests across the U.S. to oppose Trump administration policies they say threaten democracy and harm veteran communities. Organized by About Face and May Day Strong, the “Vets Say No” actions will take place in cities Trump has previously threatened with military occupation. Protesters are speaking out against cuts to Veterans Affairs services, ICE raids, and broader authoritarian tactics. Organizers emphasize nonviolence and community solidarity, framing the protests as a stand for rights, healthcare, and democratic values. The movement builds on earlier veteran-led demonstrations against federal job losses and pardons of January 6 rioters.⁸

Spanberger Wins Virginia Governorship with Anti-Trump Platform

Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman and CIA officer, won the Virginia governor’s race, becoming the first woman to hold the office after 74 male predecessors. Her campaign focused squarely on opposing Trump’s policies, particularly federal workforce cuts that hit Virginia hard. Spanberger’s bipartisan tone and strategic messaging helped her defeat Trump-aligned Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, despite the latter’s endorsement from the president. Spanberger’s victory, alongside other Democratic wins in the state, signals voter pushback against Trump’s agenda and highlights the electoral power of resistance rooted in defending jobs, democracy, and inclusive governance.⁹

Mamdani Leads Defiant March Against Trump Ahead of NYC Mayoral Election

On the eve of Election Day, New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani led a sunrise march across the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall, vowing to resist President Trump’s threats to withhold federal funding if Mamdani is elected. Joined by supporters and Attorney General Letitia James, Mamdani pledged to use legal and political tools to defend the city’s rights and address poverty. Trump has repeatedly attacked Mamdani, calling him a “communist,” while Mamdani framed his campaign as a movement unbowed by intimidation. The rally capped Mamdani’s citywide anti-Trump tour and positioned him as a challenger to federal overreach.¹⁰

Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is joined by Attorney General Letitia James, marching across the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. (Adam Gray/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

California Voters Approve Redistricting Plan to Counter Trump-Aligned Maps

In a decisive victory for Democrats, California voters passed Proposition 50, a redistricting initiative aimed at removing Republican incumbents and gaining up to five congressional seats in the 2026 midterms. Spearheaded by Governor Gavin Newsom in response to GOP-led gerrymandering in Texas, the campaign framed the vote as a referendum on Trump’s influence over national politics. Backed by high-profile Democrats and over $100 million in funding, the measure passed easily, signaling strong opposition to Trump’s policies and tactics. Newsom urged other Democratic-led states to follow suit, positioning the win as part of a broader strategy to defend democracy and challenge Republican control.¹¹

UNC Joins Growing List of Universities Rejecting Trump’s Higher Ed Compact

Students and staff at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill rallied against the Trump administration’s “Compact for Academic Excellence,” which ties federal funding to universities’ compliance with conservative mandates, including bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts announced the university would not sign the compact “as written,” citing its impractical and restrictive demands, such as tuition freezes and limits on international enrollment. Protesters urged UNC to take a stronger stand for student rights and academic freedom. UNC joins over a dozen institutions, including MIT and Brown, in rejecting the compact.¹²

Faith and Community Leaders Hold Weekly Vigils to Protest Trump’s Immigration Policies

Every Sunday, activists, religious leaders, and families gather outside the detention center in the Florida Everglades (yes, that one) to protest the Trump administration’s immigration policies and demand the facility’s closure. The center, hastily built in the Everglades and operating despite legal challenges and environmental concerns, has become a symbol of resistance. The vigils, now in their 14th week, have inspired similar actions nationwide, with thousands joining training sessions to organize their own events. Participants decry ICE raids, lack of transparency, and the disappearance of detainees, while honoring those who died in custody. Led by groups like Workers Circle and the Miccosukee Tribe, the movement blends spiritual solidarity with political defiance.¹³

Jury Acquits Protester Who Threw Sandwich at Federal Agent During D.C. Crackdown

A Washington, D.C. jury acquitted Sean Dunn of misdemeanor assault after he threw a sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection agent during an August protest against Trump’s militarized response to civil unrest in the capital. The incident, captured in a widely shared image, became a symbol of resistance to federal overreach. A grand jury had previously declined to pursue felony charges. Dunn’s acquittal is seen by supporters as a small but meaningful victory for those opposing the administration’s aggressive tactics in D.C.¹⁴

Arlington Schools Defy Trump’s Transgender Policy Despite Federal Funding Threats

Arlington Public Schools in Virginia are openly defying President Trump’s executive order and the Department of Education’s directive on transgender student policies, continuing to allow students to use facilities aligned with their gender identity. A district official confirmed the stance, which aligns with state law and court rulings affirming Title IX protections. Despite threats of federal funding cuts and ongoing legal battles, APS maintains its commitment to inclusive education. The district’s resistance joins a broader pushback from Northern Virginia school systems against federal attempts to enforce restrictive gender policies in K–12 schools.¹⁵

Historian Leads Teach-In Protest Against Trump Library Land Deal in Miami

Historian Dr. Marvin Dunn led a teach-in protest in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood to oppose a controversial land transfer for President Trump’s proposed presidential library. The 2.63-acre parcel, valued at $67 million, was approved for transfer by Miami Dade College’s Board of Trustees in a closed-door meeting, prompting legal challenges over transparency. Dunn’s protest coincided with Trump’s nearby appearance at a business forum and included a walking tour of historic Black landmarks. Joined by fellow educators and community members, Dunn called for public hearings and accountability, framing the giveaway as a misuse of public resources meant for students.¹⁶

Chicago Mayor Urges U.N. to Investigate Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has called on the United Nations Human Rights Council to investigate the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement in the city, citing violent raids, arbitrary detentions, and the use of chemical agents against protesters. Johnson condemned the federal government’s Operation Midway Blitz, which has led to thousands of arrests and incidents that he described as violations of human rights and dignity. He also criticized the administration’s withdrawal from the U.N. Human Rights Council and its failure to participate in a scheduled human rights review. Johnson emphasized the interconnectedness of immigrant, Black, and Brown communities and called for international accountability.¹⁷

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Featured Organizations

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One of the most powerful things you can do as an individual in this moment is join an organization that is engaged in concrete actions to challenge, disrupt, and protect. This week’s news round-up features the following grassroots organizations that are turning dissent into strategic collective action. Check out these great organizations or find one near you and join today!

Students Rise Up

Sunrise Movement

Refuse Fascism

Handmaid Army DC

About Face

May Day Strong

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Want more from How to Resist?

Check out these posts:

📌 45 Acts of Non-Compliance for Ordinary People

📌 Taking Action Against ICE Detention Centers

📌 Helping people leave MAGA

📌 Take Action: Bystander intervention

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1. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/11/05/elections-winners-losers/

2. https://abcnews.go.com/US/judge-orders-trump-administration-fully-fund-snap-benefits/story?id=127273708

3. https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-rule-trumps-portland-troop-deployment-2025-11-07/

4. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/nov/07/student-protest-trump-education-attacks

5. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/03/states-sue-trump-public-service-loan-forgiveness-pslf.html

6. https://federalnewsnetwork.com/hiring-retention/2025/11/unions-sue-trump-administration-over-loyalty-question-added-to-federal-job-applications/

7. https://apnews.com/article/trump-election-democrats-washington-dc-protest-c6b9dd16022b654b6bc22871be023e4c

8. https://www.newsweek.com/vets-say-no-veterans-protest-trump-nationwide-11009004

9. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/04/us/politics/virginia-governor-election-spanberger.html

10. https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mamdani-vows-defy-trump-fiery-final-march-from-brooklyn-bridge-city-hall-ahead-election-day

11. https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/04/california-redistricting-prop-50-passes-00635910?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=snews

12. https://www.wral.com/news/education/unc-chapel-hill-rejects-trump-education-compact-november-2025/

13. https://english.elpais.com/usa/2025-11-07/sunday-vigil-at-alligator-alcatraz-grows-in-defiance-of-trumps-immigration-policy.html

14. https://www.democracynow.org/2025/11/7/headlines/jury_acquits_man_who_threw_sandwich_to_protest_trumps_militarized_takeover_of_dc

15. https://www.foxnews.com/us/arlington-schools-defy-trumps-transgender-order-despite-federal-funding-threat-from-administration

16. https://www.wlrn.org/government-politics/2025-11-06/miami-trump-presidential-library-protest

17. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/11/07/chicago-mayor-immigration-ice-trump-united-nations/