Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump’s much-anticipated military parade, celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, took place on Saturday and is estimated to have cost taxpayers up to $45 million. The event, which saw military displays down Pennsylvania Avenue, aimed to showcase American military strength and serve as a recruitment tool, according to discussions among journalists.
The parade, which Trump had hinted at since his inauguration in 2017, included flyovers and presentations of military hardware, sparking debate about its effectiveness and purpose. The event was covered by The Washington Post columnists Karen Tumulty, Molly Roberts, and Erik Wemple, who shared their insights and observations on the parade's turnout and public reception.
Erik Wemple, who attended the parade, noted that while the spectacle appeared subdued on television, the event drew a considerable crowd, with many attendees openly sharing their views. The opinions among spectators varied, with some supporting the parade as a celebration of the U.S. Army and others viewing it as a political statement by President Trump.
Molly Roberts highlighted the dual perceptions of the event, questioning whether attendees were there to celebrate the military or President Trump himself. Fox News, which broadcast the event, emphasized the parade's recruitment potential and focused on the historical aspects of the military units involved.
Karen Tumulty remarked on the parade's timing against the backdrop of domestic protests and President Trump's use of military forces within the U.S., suggesting that the display of military might could be perceived differently given current societal tensions. She observed that the parade might have been intended to signal strength to both domestic and international audiences.
Despite the mixed reactions, the parade demonstrated the significant connection many Americans have with the military, whether through service, familial ties, or employment in related industries. The event also coincided with "No Kings" protests nationwide, which were largely peaceful and highlighted concerns about executive overreach.
The discussion concluded with reflections on the parade's success in conveying President Trump’s intended message of displaying American greatness through military prowess. However, the columnists noted that the ultimate impact of the parade on Trump's political standing and its effectiveness as a recruiting tool remain to be seen.
