President Donald Trump presided over the largest military parade in decades on Friday, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States Army with a show of force in Washington, D.C., coinciding with his 79th birthday.

The elaborate display featured nearly 7,000 service members, patriotic flyovers, and a fireworks finale. However, rainy weather appeared to reduce the size of the crowd.

In his address, Trump proclaimed America the “hottest country in the world,” vowing it would soon be “greater and stronger than ever before.” Notably absent from his remarks was any reference to the widespread anti-Trump demonstrations taking place nationwide.

Thousands of protesters marched in cities from Boston to Los Angeles under the banner of “No Kings,” marking the most significant wave of anti-Trump protests since his re-election. Demonstrators accused the president of authoritarianism, with some labeling him a “traitor” and demanding his ouster.

The political temperature rose further after a deadly shooting in Minnesota left two Democratic state lawmakers and their spouses targeted in what the governor described as a politically motivated act. One lawmaker and their partner were killed. In response, organizers canceled several Minnesota protests out of respect and safety concerns.

While the capital witnessed military pageantry and celebration, much of the nation remained tense and divided, underscoring the deep political rift shaping American life.