Protests Coincide with Trump’s Birthday, Armed Forces Day, and Democratic Lawmaker’s Assassination
Tens of thousands of Americans gathered on Saturday to protest against President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance in major cities, including New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. The demonstrations marked the largest wave of opposition to Trump’s presidency since his return to power in January, coinciding with a military parade celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Army and Trump’s 79th birthday.
Key Details of the Protests
- Scale: Approximately 2,000 protests of varying sizes took place across the country under the “No Kings” slogan, asserting that no individual is above the law.
- Minnesota Cancellations: All planned “No Kings” protests in Minnesota were canceled following the political assassination of a Democratic legislator and an attempted assassination, deemed acts of political extremism by Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
- Security Measures: Protesters in Washington faced heavy security, including 2.4-meter-high black fences reinforced with concrete barriers, encircling streets and iconic monuments like the Washington Monument.
- Cost of Parade: The military parade is estimated to cost between $25 and $45 million, according to US officials, including transportation, accommodation, and meals for the troops.
Reactions to the Assassination and Parade
Political Responses:
“The horrific selective assassinations of Senator Hoffman and Representative Hortman are not only horrible, they are acts of political extremism and an attack on our own democracy,” declared Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Trump’s Condemnation: Trump condemned the shooting, stating, “Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America.”
Criticism of the Parade
Authoritarian Display: Critics have labeled the parade an authoritarian show of power and a wasteful expenditure, especially considering Trump’s calls for federal budget cuts.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who are the protesters? The protesters are primarily Democratic supporters and civil liberties advocates, opposing Trump’s aggressive policies.
- Q: What is the significance of the “No Kings” slogan? The slogan emphasizes that no individual, including the president, is above the law.
- Q: Why were protests in Minnesota canceled? Protests were canceled following the assassination of a Democratic legislator and an attempted assassination, deemed acts of political extremism.
- Q: How much will the military parade cost? The parade is estimated to cost between $25 and $45 million.
- Q: How have politicians responded to the assassination? Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned the assassinations as acts of political extremism and attacks on democracy.
- Q: What are critics saying about the parade? Critics view the parade as an authoritarian display of power and a wasteful expenditure amidst Trump’s calls for federal budget cuts.
