Despite the overcast skies over Washington D.C., Donald Trump presided over a grand military parade in the heart of the U.S. capital on Saturday. "Our magnificent military parade will go on, rain or shine. Remember, a rainy parade brings good luck," the U.S. President declared early in the day as rain threatened to dampen the events.
The parade, officially organized to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Army, coincided with Trump's 79th birthday, a fact that fueled debates over what many see as a political use of military power. The White House was adorned for the occasion.
From Constitution Avenue, across from the White House, over 7,000 soldiers, 150 military vehicles, and 60 aircraft and helicopters paraded in a rare display for the United States. "COMMANDER IN CHIEF," read the official White House account on X, sharing images of Trump during the parade. Such a display had not been seen in the nation's capital since 1991, during the victory celebration of the first Gulf War led by former President George H. W. Bush.
The day began with a 21-gun salute and the descent of the Golden Knights parachute team, cheered by chants of "USA! USA!" Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania, swore in 250 new recruits and delivered a fervent patriotic speech. He recounted key moments in the country's military history, from the Battle of Bunker Hill to modern campaigns in Iraq.
"America's enemies have learned that if they threaten our people, our soldiers will come after them. Their defeat will be certain... Because our soldiers never quit, never give up, and never surrender. They fight, fight, fight, and win, win, win," he asserted. Trump praised the U.S. military as "the greatest, most formidable, and courageous force that has ever walked the face of the Earth."
The parade concluded with a spectacular fireworks display. On his platform, Truth Social, Trump thanked the military for what he called a "great parade."
Public Criticism and Resource Allocation Concerns
Despite the administration's insistence on the event's institutional nature, criticism was rampant. Many viewed the celebration as a propaganda move to bolster Trump's image as a strong leader, with some comparing the parade to those typically held in China, North Korea, or Russia. Critiques also targeted the lack of synchronization among the over 6,600 troops.
The estimated cost—up to 45 million dollars—was also heavily criticized as unnecessary spending. Social media was abuzz with images showing sparse attendance and a seemingly sleepy Trump during the parade, a pointed irony given Trump's past mockery of his predecessor Joe Biden as "Sleepy Joe."
The event's lower-than-expected turnout further fueled the perception that it was more a show of personalized power than a national unity act.
Nationwide Protests Against Authoritarianism
While military machinery rolled through Washington, the country resonated in another direction. Thousands took to the streets in over 2,000 protests under the banner "No Kings," a slogan denouncing what many see as Trump's authoritarian tendencies. Demonstrations spanned all 50 states, from New York to Los Angeles, including Chicago, San Francisco, and Austin.
In the capital itself, hundreds of protestors approached the parade perimeter, chanting slogans and carrying signs that read "Pro USA, anti Trump." Sam Richards, a 34-year-old veteran, stated, "This all seems like a cruel joke, using people who swore allegiance to the Constitution as pawns for a guy who wants to be king."
Some activists brought satirical figures of Trump, including a wooden sculpture depicting him with an elongated nose seated on a toilet.
Security Measures and Political Violence
The protests were not merely symbolic. In Los Angeles, police dispersed crowds using tear gas and rubber bullets after declaring the gathering illegal, resulting in injuries. In Texas and Minnesota, authorities warned legislators and activists to avoid the streets for safety reasons.
Political violence also marred the day, as Democratic Congresswoman Melissa Hortman and her husband were killed in Minnesota by Vance Boelter, who disguised himself as a police officer to commit the politically motivated crime. A state senator and his wife were also injured. The FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Boelter's capture.
A day intended to commemorate the U.S. Army's legacy and coincide with the President's birthday left a profound impression: a reflection of a nation torn between celebrating its history and safeguarding its democracy. While Trump declared, "America remains strong, proud, and free," thousands contradicted him in the streets.
Underneath the fireworks and martial spectacle, discontent, indignation, and a struggle for the country's democratic soul were palpable.
Understanding the Controversial Military Parade
Why was the military parade controversial?
The parade was seen by many as a political maneuver to enhance Trump's image as a strong leader, drawing comparisons to authoritarian displays in other countries.
What was the public's reaction to the parade?
Public reaction was mixed, with significant criticism over its cost and perceived authoritarian overtones, sparking nationwide protests against what many view as a drift towards authoritarianism.
How did the protests manifest across the U.S.?
Protests occurred in all 50 states, with participants carrying signs and chanting slogans opposing what they perceive as Trump's authoritarian tendencies, leading to clashes with law enforcement in some areas.