A recent AP-NORC poll indicates that a significant number of Americans question the allocation of government funds towards President Donald Trump’s extravagant military parade in Washington.
Public Opinion on Parade Spending
The survey conducted in June reveals that 60% of Americans consider the parade an inappropriate use of funds, contrasting with the 38% who find it justifiable.
Support and Criticism
Forty percent of respondents support Trump’s decision to hold the parade, while 31% remain neutral, and 29% disapprove.
Parade Details
The upcoming parade, coinciding with Trump’s birthday, will showcase 6,600 soldiers, 25 M1 Abrams tanks, and various military vehicles. Vintage aircraft, including a B-25 bomber and Huey helicopters, are set to participate while Trump delivers an address.
Financial Estimates
Army officials estimate the parade’s cost between $25 million to $45 million, prompting concerns among some Republicans. Sen. Roger Wicker, expressing reservations, advised against the event due to its financial implications.
Political Response
Despite Trump’s assertion that the expenses are minimal compared to the parade’s significance, numerous Republican lawmakers, including Speaker Mike Johnson, plan to abstain from attending. This decision reflects the broader sentiment of disapproval towards Trump’s presidency, as indicated by the poll results.
Survey Insights
The poll, conducted from June 5-9 with 1,158 participants, highlights a 60% disapproval rate of Trump’s performance, marking a significant increase from previous polls. The margin of error for the survey stands at +/- 4.0 percentage points.
