In an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, President Donald Trump dismissed concerns over the estimated $25 to $45 million cost of his upcoming military parade, calling the amount “peanuts” compared to its value. The parade, planned for June 14—which coincides with both Trump’s 79th birthday and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary—has drawn criticism over its extravagant spending and perceived personal glorification.
Trump insisted the event isn’t about his birthday, but rather a celebration of America’s military strength, saying, “We have the greatest weapons in the world, and we’re going to celebrate it.” The parade will feature more than 100 military vehicles, over 6,000 service members, 50 helicopters, and even Abrams tanks, requiring special street reinforcements to avoid damage to Washington, D.C.’s infrastructure.
A White House spokesperson said the cost would be shared by the U.S. Army and the Semiquincentennial Commission. While Trump touted the parade as a tribute to American service members, critics—especially Democrats—have condemned it as wasteful and self-serving. Representative Steve Cohen called the plan an “egotistical” misuse of taxpayer funds.
Military parades have long fascinated Trump, who previously admired France’s Bastille Day procession and suggested the U.S. “try and top it” during his first term.
