Context:

Protesters are expected to gather in Washington, D.C., and other cities in response to President Trump's military parade celebrating the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary and Flag Day. The parade has sparked significant opposition, with groups like 'Refuse Fascism' criticizing Trump's policies and actions, including recent ICE raids in Los Angeles. While the 'No Kings' protests are planned nationwide, they are intentionally avoiding D.C. to focus on other community-driven events, like a flagship march in Philadelphia. Despite criticism, Trump has dismissed claims of acting like a 'king,' stating his need to navigate political hurdles. The administration has warned that any protesters attempting to disrupt the parade will be met with substantial force, highlighting a tense atmosphere surrounding the event.

Dive Deeper:

• Protesters are converging on Washington, D.C., and other cities in reaction to President Trump's military parade, which honors the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary and coincides with Flag Day and Trump's 79th birthday.

• Opposition to the parade is partly fueled by recent ICE raids in Los Angeles, where protests have escalated, leading Trump to deploy the National Guard and Marines in response to the unrest.

• The 'Refuse Fascism' group is organizing protests accusing Trump of authoritarianism and highlighting issues like the deportation of immigrants and attacks on civil rights.

• The 'No Kings' protests, which criticize Trump for allegedly leading the country like a monarch, are being held in various cities but deliberately avoiding Washington, D.C., to focus on other community events.

• Trump has addressed the 'No Kings' protests, asserting that he does not feel like a king due to the challenges he faces in getting policies approved, exemplified by his efforts to end California's electric vehicle mandates.

• The upcoming military parade is expected to proceed along Constitution Avenue, with the administration warning that any disruptive protesters will encounter a 'heavy force' as part of the security measures.

• These developments occur amidst a backdrop of political tensions and public dissatisfaction, with various groups seizing the opportunity to voice their discontent with the current administration's policies.