Days ahead of the militaristic parade he has ordered up for his 79th birthday, President Donald Trump has denied having any monarchical pretensions even as he continues to face questions over his use of American soldiers and marines to help put down protests over his harsh immigration enforcement efforts.
Speaking in the East Room during an impromptu press conference after signing legislation to block California’s ability to regulate vehicle emissions and push for more electric vehicle sales in an effort to protect the state’s air quality, Trump was asked about protests planned for Saturday as part of what organizers are calling “No Kings Day” to coincide with the parade, which is ostensibly meant to mark the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
