Trump Speech, Parade Intensify Military Politicization Debate

During President Donald Trump's speech at Fort Bragg for the Army's 250th anniversary, soldiers standing behind him were reportedly selected based on physical appearance and political views, according to internal 82nd Airborne Division memos that instructed against 'fat soldiers' and encouraged replacing those with opposing political leanings. The resulting audience was mostly white and male, and their cheering and booing in response to partisan remarks may have breached Department of Defense nonpartisanship protocols. Some troops voiced concerns that the event and the sale of pro-Trump merchandise on base undermined the Army's reputation for neutrality. A new AP-NORC poll found more Americans approved than disapproved of the anniversary parade, though a majority—especially Democrats and independents—viewed it as an inappropriate use of funds. The controversy comes amid ongoing disputes between Trump and state leaders over deploying federal troops for domestic issues. These events have intensified debate about civil-military relations and the politicization of military forces.