Summary
The White House denied plans for a military parade on Donald Trump’s June 14 birthday, despite Washington and Arlington officials confirming early discussions.
Local leaders said administration and Secret Service contacts suggest a parade route from the Pentagon to the White House.
Mayor Bowser raised concerns about costs and road damage, citing a $21.6 million estimate from a previously canceled 2018 parade. Critics, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth, oppose the idea.
Officials urge caution, citing federal job cuts under the DOGE Initiative and the impact on military families.
“We heard people talking about it, almost demanding it, so we had to!”