JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (TNND) — Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency Thursday ahead of protests against the Trump administration.

He made the declaration in an executive order and directed the Missouri National Guard to mobilize. Kehoe ordered the militia's adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Charles Hausman, to call into service however many troops needed to protect people and property and help state officials. The governor also directed Hausman to use whatever equipment necessary for supporting the officials.

"We respect, and will defend, the right to peacefully protest, but we will not tolerate violence or lawlessness in our state," Gov. Kehoe said in a press release . "While other states may wait for chaos to ensue, the State of Missouri is taking a proactive approach in the event that assistance is needed to support local law enforcement in protecting our citizens and communities.”

There are demonstrations planned Saturday across Missouri as part of a nationwide “No Kings” event, in which protesters vocalize opposition to the Trump administration. Gov. Kehoe said additional state resources are needed to help “relieve the conditions of distress and hazard to the safety and welfare of the citizens” of several cities.

“The events that are occurring or could occur in the cities of Kansas City, Springfield, St. Louis, and other affected communities, in the State of Missouri, have created or may create conditions of distress and hazards to the safety, welfare, and property of the citizens and visitors of the communities beyond the capacities of local jurisdictions and other established agencies," the executive order states.

“The rule of law must be maintained in the cities of Kansas City, Springfield, St. Louis, and other affected communities, in the State of Missouri, for the protection, safety, welfare, and property of the citizens, visitors, and businesses of those communities,” the order continues.

A description of a St. Louis protest on an event planning website says that a core principle behind all “No Kings” demonstrations is a “commitment to nonviolent action.”

“We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values,” the description reads.

Protest organizers encourage participants to march against “authoritarian politics and billionaire takeover.” The demonstration, the organizers say, is “part of a national moment that changes the conversation – and turns the tide.”

“We’re standing together against the abuses of power, cruelty, and corruption. On June 14, we gather to remind Trump and his enablers: America has No King!” the description says.

Have questions, concerns or tips? Send them to Ray at .