Trump supporters and protesters turned out in the pouring rain for the Fourth of July 'Salute to America' event
A downpour across the city prompted questions over whether the evening fireworks — as well as Trump's plan to include military flyovers — would still go forward.
Revelers and protesters still turned up despite the rain, covering themselves in ponchos and plastic bags, or toting umbrellas.
The military showed off its might, including two 25-ton Bradley Fighting Vehicles stationed outside the entrance of the Lincoln Memorial.
Two 70-ton M1A2 Abrams tanks and an M88A2 HERCULES Armored Recovery Vehicle also made appearances.
Source: Military.com
Meanwhile, protesters with the organization Codepink handed out small, foil balloons resembling Trump in a diaper.
All the bells and whistles have prompted local officials to complain about the costs of Trump's extravagant festivities, but the Trump administration has refused to detail how much the event will cost taxpayers.
Source: The Washington Post
The National Park Service, however, reportedly diverted nearly $2.5 million to pay for Thursday's celebrations. The money would otherwise have gone towards improving parks across the country.
Source: The Washington Post
Trump has defended the price tag, saying it will cost "very little compared to what it is worth."
The cost of our great Salute to America tomorrow will be very little compared to what it is worth. We own the planes, we have the pilots, the airport is right next door (Andrews), all we need is the fuel. We own the tanks and all. Fireworks are donated by two of the greats. Nice!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 3, 2019Trump was set to speak at the National Mall, becoming the first president in nearly 70 years to do so on Independence Day.
Though the event was free and any member of the public could attend, the Lincoln Memorial was sectioned off by a chainlink fence for VIPs who had purchased tickets to Trump's speech.
In a tweet Thursday morning, Trump even teased an Air Force One flyover. It was unclear as of Thursday afternoon whether that would occur.
But privately, Trump’s aides reportedly worried about empty seats, and rushed in the previous days to sell tickets and ramp up participation.
Source: The Associated Press
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