Trump Visits Norfolk for Navy’s 250th Amid Government Shutdown
By: Clerfania Previlon
President Donald Trump visited Norfolk, Virginia, for the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy this past Sunday. It was reported that more than 10,000 sailors attended the celebration. Trump’s visit comes amidst the current government shutdown, which has continued to place a strain on federal and military families.
The visit has raised questions about timing and intent, given the ongoing shutdown. Hampton University political science students shared their perspectives on the matter.
When asked how she interpreted Trump’s visit, Hampton University political science student Kharisma Randall said, “His decision to attend the Naval Academy anniversary during an active government shutdown seems more like a political tactic than a coincidence…In a way, it feels like a form of political bribery.”
Trump has promised to repay military personnel who have been put out of work because of the government shutdown, according to WHRO. The government has not experienced a shutdown since 2019. After the 35-day shutdown, The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 (GEFTA) was put into place. GEFTA ensures that federal employees receive back pay for the duration of a shutdown once government operations resume.
Political science major Niala Smith said, "Emphasizing military pride during a shutdown allows Trump to present himself as a unifying, patriotic leader despite internal chaos. It may inspire some Americans to view him as strong and decisive…many see it as tone-deaf, celebrating power while ordinary people suffer.”
Beyond campus perspectives, Trump’s visit was met with backlash from Norfolk locals. According to WTKR, the COVA Visibility Brigade protested Trump’s visit to Naval Station Norfolk. The COVA Visibility Brigade is a part of the larger COVA Coalition, a group that advocates for fair democracy.
For Hampton students and Norfolk residents alike, the visit sparked conversations about politics, patriotism, and public perception.
