Tech Giants Are Quietly Paying for Trump’s Military Parade—Here’s Why
Remember when Trump floated the idea of a massive military parade through D.C.? Critics lost it—calling it everything from wasteful to downright authoritarian. But here’s the kicker: while these same companies are loudly supporting next year’s America250 celebrations, they’re also quietly bankrolling Trump’s parade. Playing both sides much?
America250 vs. Trump’s Parade: The Corporate Tightrope
America250 is supposed to be this big, unifying celebration of democracy when the U.S. turns 250 in 2026. But Trump’s parade—basically a knockoff of France’s Bastille Day—has everyone picking sides. So why are sponsors like Oracle and Lockheed Martin shouting about America250 while staying dead silent on the parade funding? It’s… weird, right?
Who’s Actually Funding This Thing?
A bunch of corporate heavyweights with serious government contracts are involved. Let’s break it down.
Oracle’s Playing Both Sides
Oracle’s dumped money into the parade—no one knows how much—which isn’t shocking since Larry Ellison (their co-founder) hosted a Trump fundraiser back in 2020. But their PR team keeps banging on about America250’s “educational programs.” Sure, guys. We believe you.
Lockheed Martin’s Defense Dance
Lockheed practically lives off Pentagon contracts, so a military parade? That’s basically a free ad for them. They’ve put out some vague statement about “honoring troops” without mentioning the parade at all. Classic corporate sidestep.
Why So Secretive?
These companies are acting like they’ve got something to hide. Maybe they do.
PR Genius or Cowardice?
Let’s be real—no CEO wants angry tweets from progressives or shareholders. America250 lets them look patriotic without picking a side. But the whole “don’t ask, don’t tell” vibe around the parade money? Sketchy.
Follow the Money
Insiders say sponsorships range from $500K to $2 million. For these companies, that’s pocket change. But it buys access—and that’s the point. Meanwhile, their America250 donations get framed as “giving back.” Convenient.
What People Are Saying
Reactions split right down the middle. Some call it patriotism; others see a red flag.
The Pro-Parade Crowd
“This is about respecting our military,” says Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX). “Stop politicizing everything.”
The Critics Aren’t Buying It
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) nailed it: “This isn’t patriotism—it’s militarization. If they’re funding it, own it.”
What’s the Internet Saying?
Google searches for “tech companies Trump parade” blew up after The Verge’s Oracle story dropped. Over on Reddit, a thread titled “Silicon Valley’s Hypocrisy” racked up thousands of upvotes. And @MorePerfectUS tweeted: “Corporations love a parade—just not the spotlight.” Spot on.
The Bigger Picture
This whole mess could change how companies handle political hot potatoes.
The Risk-Reward Game
Backing the parade might score points with Republicans, but it could tank their reputation with everyone else. So they hedge—throw money around, stay vague, and hope no one notices.
What’s Next?
As politics gets messier, expect more companies to hide behind “neutral” causes like America250 while cutting checks under the table. The playbook’s written—now we’ll see if it works.
Bottom Line
These companies want influence without the backlash. But in today’s world? Good luck keeping that quiet. The line between patriotism and politics is basically invisible now—and people are paying attention.
Source: NY Post – Business
