Thousands Protest ‘No Kings’ as Trump’s Birthday Military Parade Takes Centre Stage

(The Post News)- Around 2,000 “No King” protests are expected across the country as U.S. President Donald Trump marks his 79th birthday with a $45 million military parade celebrating the Army’s 250th anniversary.

The event, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. local time, will feature 7,000 troops, 150 military vehicles, and over 50 helicopters — including Abrams tanks, Apache gunships, and Black Hawks — showcasing military might along the National Mall. Supporters view the parade as a grand tribute to the nation’s armed forces, but critics argue it doubles as a theatrical show of dominance centred on Trump himself.

Additionally, critics have condemned what they describe as Trump’s “authoritarian” use of the military to intimidate any opposition – actions seen earlier this week in the LA protests. Ezra Levin, cofounder of the activist group Indivisible and one of the 200 protest organisers, said:

“Two hundred and fifty years ago, the Continental Army was formed to fight back against a king. There is an opportunity right now for Americans to come out and say: ‘No, wait, this isn’t what America stands for.’”

In response to the protests and accusations of authoritarianism, Trump stated, “I don’t see myself as a king. I have to endure a lot of challenges just to get things approved.” He further warned that those who choose to protest should be prepared to face a “very big force” as security is tightened in Washington.

For this reason, organisers have planned protests in over 60 cities across the country—excluding Washington, D.C.—to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

These two coinciding events highlight how the country is in a stage of deep political divisions.

About the Author

Lukhona Sixishe

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Lukhona is a general news reporter who covers a wide range of stories, from politics to entertainment. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Writing from the University of Cape Town and has had work published in News24. She joined The Post News in the second quarter of 2025. journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net

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