1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

The extravagant $45 million military parade on President Trump's birthday was an excessive display that drew widespread criticism for its exorbitant cost and jarring optics. Despite the grand scale involving thousands of troops, tanks, and aircraft, reports indicate Trump himself appeared disengaged and may have even dozed off at times, sparking public mockery. This disconnect between the lavish spectacle and apparent lack of enthusiasm calls into question the true purpose behind such an event beyond mere self-aggrandizement. At a time when budgets are constrained, the parade's bloated price tag seems difficult to justify, especially without broader public benefit. Moving forward, a more prudent allocation of resources focused on substantive policy initiatives that uplift all Americans would better serve the national interest.