Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee have pressed the U.S. Army Secretary about the cost of a major military parade in D.C. that will be held later this month, suggesting federal funds could be better spent.
“I am struck by the cost — $25 to $40 million,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Ct., said during the Thursday hearing, as he addressed Army Secretary Dan Driscoll.
Blumenthal and Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, said the estimate seemed very broad, given that the parade will be held in just over a week — on June 14.
The parade is being held to commemorate the Army’s 250th birthday and has the strong support of President Donald Trump, whose 79th birthday is also on the day of the event.
Blumenthal, while noting that he appreciates celebrating the Army milestone, said he believes it se