Trump gets his D.C. military parade, but "No Kings" protests cast shadow
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Soldiers waved to the crowd from a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Photo: Kevin Carter/Getty Images
The National Mall transformed into a MAGA-ified carnival for the Army's 250th birthday parade on Saturday, but the show of military might drew a smaller crowd than anticipated.
The big picture: 7,000 soldiers, 100+ tanks, cheering tourists and heavy-duty security took over downtown — against the backdrop of anti-President Trump protests nationwide and political violence in Minnesota.
- Trump sat on a stage of VIPs and watched the multimillion-dollar procession of troops and tanks down Constitution Avenue, followed by a concert and fireworks. "Happy birthday," country singer Lee Greenwood told Trump, who turned 79.
- The Army Golden Knights parachuted in — one flying a D.C. flag.
By the numbers: Attendance for the country's largest military parade in decades didn't appear near the expected 200,000, AP reports.
Meanwhile, millions of people joined "No Kings" rallies across America, including across the DMV.
- Near the White House, several hundred people joined a "Refuse Fascism" rally. "No Kings" organizers told Axios they intentionally avoided rallying in downtown D.C. to "create contrast, not conflict."
- In Culpeper, Virginia, police say a man intentionally drove into a crowd of protestors.
The scene: It didn't rain much on Trump's parade, but the spectacle proved better TV than in-person viewing. It was painfully muggy, with poor sight lines and plenty of waiting around between columns of marching soldiers and tanks.
- Wearing replica period outfits, Army soldiers commemorated the Revolutionary War and Civil War, before moving into the 20th century.
- Flyovers included Vietnam-era helicopters. Modern tanks rolled past loudspeakers playing the melody of Van Halen's "Jump."
The Washington Monument grounds had a picnic vibe with some families sitting on the grass.
- Thousands left early to dodge the threat of showers, but early sprinkles and hazy skies eventually became clearer and allowed for a fireworks display.
Zoom in: D.C. trash crews moved in shortly after crowds were let out to begin cleaning up.
- Mayor Muriel Bowser declined to attend, NBC4 reported, instead sending her senior adviser.
The latest: Road closures lifted at 6am Monday morning for Independence Avenue and major thoroughfares.
What we're watching: The city will survey if roads were damaged under the weight of 70-ton M1 Abrams tanks and war equipment.
- The Army previously told the press they would be on the hook for any repairs.