Deep in the details of Donald Trump's July 4th "Salute to America" rally is the fact that it will be separate from the annual Park Service Independence celebration -- and he is letting them foot the bill for his fireworks show.
In an interview with the New York Times, the president was asked about the event that will feature him ("Your favorite President, me") as the main attraction that he announced to great fanfare -- and ridicule -- on Sunday morning.
Trump tweeted, "HOLD THE DATE! We will be having one of the biggest gatherings in the history of Washington, D.C., on July 4th. It will be called “A Salute To America” and will be held at the Lincoln Memorial. Major fireworks display, entertainment and an address by your favorite President, me!"
According to the report, "On Sunday, Mr. Trump indicated that the event would take place, but few details were available. In a statement on Sunday, the Interior Department said the National Park Service was 'working diligently to provide the president with a plan for Salute to America, adding, 'At this time, everything is pre-decisional.'"
The Times reports that Trump has always wanted a big parade that in many ways honors him, but has balked at the price.
"The Defense Department estimated the cost last year for a Veterans Day parade at $92 million, sending the White House into sticker shock and prompting Mr. Trump to fold on his order," the Times reports.
As for his latest rally, Trump admitted that he found a way to cut costs.
"During his meeting at the White House, Mr. Trump said he had already found some savings: 'free' fireworks," The Times reports. "The event would coincide with the annual fireworks put on by the National Park Service, which paid $270,000 for an 18-minute show last year."
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