What happens when a president throws a military parade—and the people aren’t impressed? You get protests. Big ones.
Across the U.S., thousands rallied under the banner “No Kings,” pushing back against Trump’s show of military might in D.C. on his birthday.
For many, it wasn’t just about tanks rolling past the Capitol.
It was about immigration raids, family separations, and fears Trump’s power is stretching too far.
“It’s not harsh, it’s evil,” said activist Jose Azetcla in L.A.
Tear gas met protesters near government buildings, but just streets away, crowds kept marching in peace.
Even with the outcry, polls show Trump’s deportation policies still sit well with many Americans.
What The Critics Think?
But critics argue the $45 million parade was more ego than patriotism.
“This is about honouring service,” said Vietnam veteran Melvin Graves, grateful for long-overdue recognition.
Yet the parade’s optics were messy—soldiers marching while others were deployed to confront protesters in Los Angeles.
Security analyst Barbara Starr summed it up: “It does overhang this parade.”
In the end, soaked by rain and controversy, the day left one question hanging: parade for the people—or parade for the president?
