Fact Check: The parade is expected to cost the government at least $25 million.

Fact Check: "The parade is expected to cost the government at least $25 million."

What We Know

The claim regarding the cost of the military parade has been substantiated by multiple sources. According to an Army spokesperson, the estimated cost for the parade and associated festivities ranges from $25 million to $45 million (BBC, NPR, NBC News). This estimate includes expenses for logistics, personnel, and infrastructure repairs needed to accommodate heavy military vehicles, which could damage city streets (CBS News, USA Today).

The parade is set to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and coincides with President Trump's birthday, which has drawn both support and criticism regarding the expenditure of public funds on such an event (Bloomberg).

Analysis

The claim that the parade will cost at least $25 million is accurate based on the estimates provided by the Army. The lower end of the cost spectrum is confirmed by several reputable news outlets, including NPR and NBC News, which report that the Army spokesperson explicitly stated the cost would be between $25 million and $45 million (NPR, NBC News).

However, while the claim is true, it is important to note that the upper estimate of $45 million has also been widely reported, indicating that the total cost could significantly exceed $25 million. This suggests that while the claim is correct, it does not encompass the full range of potential costs associated with the parade.

The sources cited are generally reliable, with NPR and NBC News being established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The Army's own statements regarding the costs lend additional credibility to the figures presented.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that "the parade is expected to cost the government at least $25 million" is accurate, as multiple sources confirm this figure as part of a broader estimate ranging up to $45 million. However, the claim does not fully represent the potential maximum cost, which is significant. Thus, while the lower end of the estimate is correct, the broader context of the cost range is necessary for a complete understanding.