The White House communications director, Steven Cheung, addressed the nationwide ‘No Kings’ protests on Saturday, describing them as ‘a complete and utter failure with minuscule attendance.’ Thousands of planned protests, which remained peaceful as the Army’s 250th anniversary parade commenced, followed a week of violent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles and other cities.
Organizers of the ‘No Kings’ demonstrations chose the same day as the military parade, which coincided with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Cheung took to X to criticize both the protests and the timing of the parade, stating, ‘It is sad Democrats and liberals would rather support criminals and illegals instead of celebrating the 250th anniversary of our great U.S. Army and Flag Day.’ He further emphasized that many more Americans were commemorating the military’s sacrifice and service.
Republican lawmakers celebrated the parade as an ‘incredible opportunity’ to showcase the U.S. military’s strength and values. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., expressed her support on X, saying, ‘It’s an honor to support our service members in our nation’s capital.’ Meanwhile, Democrats, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, criticized the parade, linking it to Trump’s birthday and questioning its purpose. Newsom stated, ‘Our service members are the heroes. Today should be about them. Not Donald Trump.’ His press office later posted a photo from the event with the caption, ‘THIS IS THE LARGEST PRESIDENTIAL BIRTHDAY PARTY EVER.’
Despite the political divide, the U.S. Army reaffirmed its commitment to the nation, stating the parade was ‘a reminder that we’ve always been there for America, and we always will. THIS WE’LL DEFEND.’ The event, while contentious, highlighted the nation’s deepening political divisions amidst a celebration of military service and a demonstration of dissent against former leadership.