Fact Check: "The 'No Kings' protests were organized to coincide with President Donald Trump's joint military celebration of his 79th birthday and the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, a grand military parade was held in Washington, D.C., to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which was founded on June 14, 1775. This event coincided with President Donald Trump's 79th birthday, leading to significant public attention and controversy (U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Parade). The parade was characterized by a large display of military might, including thousands of soldiers, military vehicles, and aerial displays (NBC News).
On the same day, nationwide protests occurred under the slogan "No Kings," which were organized in response to Trump's policies and perceived authoritarianism (New York Times). Reports indicated that these protests were the largest coordinated demonstrations since the beginning of Trump's second term, with events taking place across all 50 states (USA Today).
Analysis
The claim that the "No Kings" protests were organized to coincide with Trump's birthday and the Army's anniversary is supported by multiple sources. The protests were indeed a reaction to the parade and Trump's administration, with demonstrators expressing their opposition to what they viewed as authoritarian governance. The protests were described as peaceful and widespread, with significant participation in urban and rural areas alike (New York Times, USA Today).
The timing of the protests was not coincidental; they were strategically planned to align with the parade, which critics argued politicized the military and drew parallels to authoritarian displays (NBC News). The protests aimed to highlight the perceived overreach of Trump's executive power, particularly in light of recent federal actions related to immigration and civil liberties (New York Times).
While the protests were a response to the parade, it is important to note that the "No Kings" slogan has been used in various contexts to criticize perceived authoritarianism, indicating that the movement has broader implications beyond just this event. However, the specific organization of protests on this day indicates a direct response to the celebration of Trump's birthday and the military parade.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the "No Kings" protests were organized to coincide with President Donald Trump's joint military celebration of his 79th birthday and the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army is accurate. The protests were indeed timed to coincide with the parade, reflecting widespread dissent against Trump's policies and the militarization of political celebrations.
