Key Takeaways:
- Trump Deploys Military in LA: Thousands of National Guard troops sent to Los Angeles to counter immigration protests, without California’s governor’s approval.
- Military Parade in DC: A grand display of tanks, soldiers, and aircraft in Washington, D.C., coinciding with Trump’s birthday.
- Hypermasculine Leadership: Critics see Trump’s actions as a display of dominance and authoritarian-style power.
- Public Pushback: Nationwide protests against Trump’s actions highlight a divide on what strength means in a democracy.
A Show of Strength or a Sign of Weakness?
This week, President Donald Trump is using the military in two major ways that have sparked debate across the country. On one coast, he’s deploying troops to control protests. On the other, he’s hosting a massive military parade. Both events are part of a larger story about power, leadership, and what it means to be strong in America.
Troops in Los Angeles: A Controversial Move
In Los Angeles, Trump sent thousands of National Guard soldiers to handle protests against his new immigration policies. These policies have led to the arrest of many immigrants, including those with no criminal record. While some protests turned violent, most were peaceful.
What’s unusual is that Trump acted without California’s governor agreeing to it. This hasn’t happened since the civil rights era, when President Lyndon Johnson sent troops to protect Black marchers in Alabama. Back then, the military was used to defend rights. Now, critics say Trump is using it to silence dissent.
Maya Wiley, a civil rights leader, calls this move “a strongman stereotype.” She says Trump is showing he can override local leaders and control people through fear.
A Military Parade in Washington, D.C.
Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., the Army’s 250th anniversary is being celebrated with a grand military parade. Tanks, soldiers, and planes are part of the display—something critics call an unnecessary show of force. The event happens to fall on Trump’s 79th birthday, adding to speculation about its timing.
Such parades are rare in the U.S. They’re more common in authoritarian countries like China, North Korea, and Russia. Trump has long wanted a military parade, inspired by France’s Bastille Day celebration. But many see it as a way to flex his power, not celebrate the military.
What’s Behind Trump’s Love of the Military?
For Trump, the military seems to symbolize strength and masculinity. Presidential historian Alexis Coe says, “War-making has historically been seen as the most ‘masculine’ presidential duty.” Even when the country isn’t at war, Trump uses the military to show power.
Trump admires leaders like Andrew Jackson, a military hero who crushed his enemies, and Teddy Roosevelt, known for his “big stick” diplomacy. But critics argue this style of leadership isn’t just about strength—it’s about intimidation.
A Different Kind of Strength
While Trump focuses on military might, many Americans are showing strength in another way. Protests against his policies have spread to cities like Chicago, New York, and San Francisco. On Saturday, millions plan to march in the “No Kings” protests, rejecting Trump’s authoritarian approach.
These protesters, including many from marginalized communities, are standing up for the rights of immigrants and the principles of democracy. Their strength lies not in weapons or force but in unity and the belief that everyone deserves fair treatment.
What Does This Mean for Democracy?
Trump’s actions have raised big questions about democracy. Using the military without a governor’s approval sets a dangerous precedent. It suggests that the president can override local leaders and silence dissent. This kind of power grab is more common in authoritarian regimes than in democracies.
Historian Alexis Coe compares Trump’s style to that of fascist leaders. “He rules by spectacle,” she says. “He equates dissent with insurrection.” This approach threatens the balance of power in a democracy.
A Moment of Choice
As the military occupies Los Angeles and a parade fills the streets of Washington, Americans are faced with a choice. Do we accept a leadership style that relies on fear and intimidation? Or do we stand up for a democracy where strength comes from protecting the vulnerable and listening to dissent?
The protests across the country show that many are rejecting Trump’s vision of power. They believe true strength lies in unity, fairness, and the courage to stand up for what’s right.
In the end, this moment isn’t just about Trump—it’s about who we are as a nation. Will we embrace a future where power is defined by force, or one where strength comes from standing together for justice and equality? The answer could shape America for years to come.