U.S. Army's $45 Million 250th Anniversary Parade Draws Widespread Criticism

Washington D.C. – The United States Army's 250th-anniversary military parade on June 14, 2025, held in Washington D.C. and presided over by former President Donald Trump, sparked significant controversy due to its estimated cost and perceived politicization. The event, which coincided with Trump's 79th birthday, marked the first military parade in the nation's capital since 1991.

The parade's budget was estimated to be between $25 million and $45 million, with initial concerns about an additional $16 million in potential road damage, later mitigated to an estimated $3.5 million. Despite the substantial expense, former President Trump dismissed the cost, stating it was "peanuts compared to the value of doing it." The elaborate display featured approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 military vehicles, and 62 aircraft, showcasing various military units and equipment.

The timing of the parade on Trump's birthday drew sharp criticism, with many accusing the administration of politicizing the military and using the event to boost his ego. Critics, including lawmakers, compared the spectacle to military displays typically seen in authoritarian regimes. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal stated, "Trump squandering $45 million in taxpayer dollars on a military parade for his birthday is the epitome of government waste," while Senator Tammy Duckworth suggested the funds could be better spent on military families and veterans' care.

Public sentiment largely mirrored the criticism. Polls indicated that a significant majority of U.S. adults, ranging from 60% to 64%, opposed the use of government funds for the parade. Millions of demonstrators participated in nationwide "No Kings" protests, expressing opposition to the parade and the former President's policies. Several veterans' groups also refused to participate, citing concerns about the event's politicization. The parade itself reportedly saw sparse crowds and was described by some observers as an "underwhelming performance."