Trump Announces Two New Holidays, Work Continues

Former President Donald Trump announced plans to designate May 8 and November 11 as new national holidays to commemorate U.S. victories in World War I and World War II, but emphasized that Americans would still be expected to work on those days, citing the country already has 'too many holidays.' Trump argued that the U.S. does not adequately celebrate its historical military victories compared to other nations, particularly highlighting May 8, known as Victory in Europe Day among U.S. allies. However, critics have noted that May 8 only marks the end of WWII in Europe and not the official end of the war for the U.S., which continued fighting Japan until August 1945. Additionally, November 11 is already Veterans Day in the U.S., and Trump's proposal to rebrand it as 'Victory Day' has drawn criticism from veterans' groups who argue it diminishes the broader purpose of honoring all American veterans. Legal experts and commentators point out that a president cannot unilaterally create federal holidays, as formal recognition requires congressional approval. Trump's proclamations are thus seen as largely symbolic, sparking debate over historical accuracy and the merits of adding holidays without workplace closures.