Speier on Trump’s desire for military parade: ‘We have a Napoleon in the making’

Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) on Tuesday ripped reports that the Pentagon is organizing a military parade at President Trump’s direction, comparing the president to French leader Napoleon Bonaparte.

“I was stunned by it to be quite honest. I mean, we have a Napoleon in the making here. And I believe that we have so many issues around the world in terms of preparing for wars that are ongoing, and wars that may be in the offing because of what’s happening in North Korea, that I would say that it’s really a waste of money,” Speier told CNN’s Anderson Cooper.

“I think everyone should be offended by his need to always be showing. He’s truly Napoleon-like,” she added, referring to Bonaparte, who led France’s military in the French Revolution before becoming the country’s emperor.

{mosads}The Washington Post reported earlier Tuesday night that Trump has asked military officials to explore holding a celebration for Americans to show their appreciation for the armed forces.

Officials told the Post that the concept is still in its early stages, adding that the parade could cost millions of dollars.

The White House confirmed that Trump directed the Department of Defense to look into creating such an event.

Speier, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, said Tuesday that she’s only seen such events take place under authoritarian governments, with the exception of France. Trump’s idea was reportedly inspired by France’s Bastille Day, when parades celebrate a turning point in the French Revolution.

“It’s not our style, it’s not the way we do business and I really object to it and I think it’s going to cost a lot of money,” Speier said. “So what’s really in it for the American people?”