This is the reason why Walmart heiress Christy Walton is funding full page ads supporting ‘No Kings’ protests

June 14 is shaping up to be a busy day on the streets of many American cities. Donald Trump’s military parade, simultaneously marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and the former president’s 79th birthday, will fill central D.C. In more than 100 other locations, however, ‘No Kings’ protests against Trump will take center stage.

The aim of the protests is to “reject authoritarianism,” according to organizers. Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, one of the groups involved, compared Trump’s leadership style to that of autocratic states.

“He is planning to roll tanks through the streets of D.C. in celebration of his birthday, and that’s the kind of thing you normally wouldn’t see in a constitutional republic, certainly not America,” said Levin.

Christy Walton buys full-page ads supporting democracy

In recent days, the ‘No Kings’ protests have drawn a high-profile supporter, with Walmart heiress Christy Walton funding full-page ads in The New York Times and regional newspapers in support of democratic values.

Although the ad doesn’t mention Trump or his administration directly, it encourages civic participation and affirms core American principles - a message widely interpreted as a rebuke of the former president.

“We are the people of the United States of America. The honor, dignity, and integrity of our country is not for sale. Our government is of the people, by the people, for the people,” reads the ad, which notes that “the views represented here are solely those of Christy Walton.”

While Walton’s message may reflect long-held beliefs - she has a history of supporting Democratic candidates - many observers believe the timing is deliberate. Trump’s trade policies, particularly tariffs on imported goods, have hit Walmart hard.

As the country’s largest retailer, Walmart imports about 40% of its merchandise. The company has warned that increased tariffs have raised costs and could mean higher prices for American consumers.

Trump responds to Walmart over tariff dispute

Trump responded to the retailer’s concerns on Truth Social: “Between Walmart and China they should, as is said, ‘Eat the Tariffs,’ and not charge valued customers ANYTHING.”

With both Trump’s high-profile celebration and widespread protests planned for the same day, June 14 could further highlight the deep divisions in the country’s political landscape.

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