Trump Faces Low Turnout, Nationwide Protests at $45M Military Parade

President Donald Trump held an expensive military parade in Washington, D.C., on his birthday to mark the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, but the event faced widespread criticism for its low turnout and high cost. Despite expectations of 200,000 attendees, the crowd was sparse, with many observers and social media users mocking the underwhelming attendance and labeling the parade a flop. The event featured a variety of military displays, including tanks, troops in historical uniforms, parachute jumps, and drone flyovers, but these were overshadowed by the poor turnout and harsh weather conditions. Critics pointed out the $45 million price tag and questioned the event’s value, particularly as it coincided with massive nationwide protests against Trump’s presidency, which drew far larger crowds. The parade was also eclipsed in the news by a tragic political assassination and overshadowed by ongoing political dissent. Trump appeared pleased with the spectacle, which culminated in him swearing in new troops, but the overall reception highlighted a disconnect between the administration’s ambitions and public response.