Washington is gearing up for a significant military parade and festival this Saturday, celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary, which coincidentally is also President Trump’s 79th birthday.
The event has sparked debates about its cost and timing, with critics arguing it reflects Trump’s politicization of the military. Trump has defended the parade, suggesting it could enhance Army recruitment efforts.
In addition to the parade, there will be a concert and fireworks, and the event will be streamed live starting at 6 PM.
Here are five key points to note:
A hefty price tag raises eyebrows
The Army estimates the parade’s cost to be between $250,000 and $45 million, which critics argue doesn’t account for additional expenses like cleanup, police presence, and potential damage to city streets.
According to a recent AP-NORC poll, 60% of adults believe the parade is a misuse of government funds, although 40% still support Trump’s decision. This represents a larger approval rate compared to the 29% who disapprove.
Some Republicans have also voiced concerns about the necessity and costs associated with the parade. Senators Ron Johnson and Susan Collins raised issues during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing last week, while Senator John Kennedy emphasized that military strength doesn’t require a public display.
Meanwhile, Senator Rand Paul openly criticized the plan, expressing his discomfort with the idea of showcasing military might in such a manner.
Some GOP members, however, have sidestepped the questions or postponed their opinions for Trump.
Republican senators largely absent
Many Republican lawmakers have opted out of attending the parade, due in part to their schedules conflicting with a defense contractors conference in Paris. According to reports, only seven out of 50 surveyed Republican councillors plan to attend.
Notably absent will be several prominent figures, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris. Senator Roger Wicker will be attending the Paris Air Show, having previously expressed concerns about the event’s cost.
House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned he was focused on his own commitments that day, while Senator Markwayne Mullin is celebrating his wedding anniversary.
After asking all 53 Republican senators about their attendance, only nine confirmed they would be there, while 41 declined.
White House officials have noted that at least 15 Cabinet members, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, will be present.
Nationwide protests planned
On Saturday, about 1,500 protests organized by the “No Kings” movement will take place across the country, with events scheduled in most major cities.
The organizers decided against protesting in Washington, D.C., aiming to focus attention elsewhere.
They emphasized the importance of local events that reject divisive politics and corruption. Some protests will coincide with local festivals, such as the Boston demonstrations aligning with the city’s Pride Parade.
Trump has warned potential protesters in D.C. of “very great power,” though he faced questions about whether he respected the right to peaceful protest.
This parade follows a week of protests aimed at anti-ICE sentiments, which started in Los Angeles and quickly spread. The White House responded by deploying thousands of National Guard troops in response to those demonstrations.
Additionally, a women’s march group, previously active during Trump’s first term, plans to hold demonstrations under the title “The Clown Out,” also avoiding D.C. in favor of Madison, Wisconsin.
Some locations will host events from both the “No Kings” movement and “Kick Out the Clown” together.
Travel disruptions anticipated
Downtown traffic will face significant disruptions due to security measures surrounding the event. Roads including the 12th Avenue Expressway and the Constitutional Street entrance will be closed, among others.
While many bus routes will experience delays, metro services will operate on a regular Saturday schedule, though some station entrances will be closed.
Ronald Reagan International Airport is bracing for disruptions, with the Federal Aviation Administration restricting flights during peak hours associated with the event. Major airlines are offering travelers flexible scheduling options.
A military parade not seen in decades
This parade marks the first military display in Washington, D.C. in 34 years, the last being to celebrate victory in the first Gulf War.
The previous event had an estimated cost of around $12 million and drew 200,000 spectators, while Saturday’s parade is expected to cost up to $45 million but will have significantly fewer personnel.
Trump has indicated that his inspiration for a military parade stemmed from witnessing one during Bastille Day in France, despite opposition from Pentagon officials in the past.
His recent remarks to military personnel have heightened concerns about the intersection of military and political rhetoric.
