The highly anticipated military parade that President Donald Trump had long desired finally took place in Washington, DC, featuring tanks, troops, and a 21-gun salute. However, the event was overshadowed by widespread protests across the country denouncing Trump's leadership style as authoritarian and undemocratic.

On his 79th birthday, Trump watched the parade from a special viewing stand near the White House as the procession showcased the might of the US military. The parade, which included over 6,000 soldiers and 128 tanks, was initially planned during Trump's first term but was eventually added to an event commemorating the US Army's 250th anniversary.

While armored vehicles rolled through the streets of Washington, DC, millions of Americans participated in the 'No Kings' protests in various cities and towns. Protesters marched through urban centers, voicing anti-authoritarian sentiments and advocating for the protection of democracy and immigrant rights.

Law enforcement agencies across the country called for peace and vowed to show zero tolerance for violence during the protests. Some governors even deployed the National Guard in anticipation of the demonstrations. In Los Angeles and Portland, police used tear gas and crowd-control measures to disperse protesters following the formal events.

Massive crowds gathered in cities like New York City, Denver, Chicago, Austin, and Los Angeles, with some carrying 'No Kings' banners. In Atlanta, thousands of people congregated outside the state Capitol to listen to speakers after the event reached its capacity. Seattle saw over 70,000 attendees at its largest rally in the city center.

These protests followed recent demonstrations against federal ICE raids and Trump's deployment of the National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles to address the unrest caused by protesters blocking highways and setting vehicles on fire. The No Kings Coalition issued a statement emphasizing that Americans, regardless of political affiliations, united against authoritarianism and the idea of monarchy.