In the spirit of history’s most infamous dictators, President Donald Trump is holding a military parade this Saturday to showcase his power and dominance, several analysts said.
However, this move could backfire. Protests are planned in nearly every corner of the country, and the potential for violence is high.
The U.S. Army is commemorating its 250th anniversary with a festival and parade in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, June 14—coinciding with President Trump’s 79th birthday. According to Army officials, the event is expected to feature approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and more than 50 aircraft.
Hundreds of thousands of attendees are expected at the festivities, D.C. officials said during a briefing on Monday.
Planning for the anniversary festival has been underway for nearly two years, but the parade was only added earlier this year, according to Army officials. They also noted that the Army is not expected to officially acknowledge Mr. Trump’s birthday.
There is, however, one notable detail: the celebration comes amid controversial immigration operations initiated by the Trump administration—actions that have already prompted massive protests nationwide.
Anti-Trump activists have previously rallied during events such as the Hands Off!, 50501, and May Day protests.
On Tuesday, hundreds demonstrated in downtown areas to oppose the administration’s immigration raids, with similar protests continuing in Los Angeles and across the country.
