Anti-Trump protests erupted across all 50 US states on Saturday as President Donald Trump presided over a grand military parade in the capital, marking both the US Army’s 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday. Thousands took to the streets in a coordinated wave of demonstrations under the banner of “No Kings,” decrying what they called authoritarian symbolism and condemning the administration’s immigration and domestic policies. While Trump reviewed troops and delivered a short patriotic address accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, cities nationwide saw tense clashes between protesters and police.Parade goes ahead despite weather Held on the National Mall, the military parade featured troop formations, heavy artillery, and flyovers, though the latter was limited due to cloud cover and light rain. The event was postponed by several hours to avoid worsening weather conditions. Military bands played patriotic music, and select servicemembers shared tributes to American legacy and service. Trump kept his remarks brief, hailing the strength and resilience of the US military.Nationwide protests turn volatile and chaotic As the parade took place in Washington, protests surged coast to coast. In Los Angeles, demonstrators clashed with police after authorities deployed tear gas and flash bangs near City Hall, where families had gathered. LA, which saw violent anti-immigration protests recently, also took to streets for this protest. A police spokeswoman told local TV channel KTLA that a “small group of agitators” threw rocks, bottles and fireworks at officers, prompting authorities to order the crowd to disperse. She added, “If people refuse to leave, we will make arrests. We have been patient all day.”In Phoenix, panic erupted when a man waved a handgun in the crowd before being subdued by officers. Philadelphia saw persistent street marches, with crowds chanting and waving placards even as police attempted to disperse them. In Virginia, a driver was arrested after recklessly plowing into a group of demonstrators but didn’t cause any injury. In Texas, a credible threat forced authorities to shut down the state Capitol grounds temporarily. One suspect was arrested in connection with the incident, though details remain limited.Leaders urge calm amid unrest Congressional leaders from both parties urged peace and unity in the wake of the unrest. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer both condemned violence and called for Americans to safeguard democratic institutions while expressing dissent peacefully.
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