White House marching forward with military parade idea

WASHINGTON – The White House is pushing ahead with the idea of throwing a grand parade to honour U.S. armed forces, brushing aside Democratic criticism.

In response to Sen. Dick Durbin’s comment that such a parade would be a “fantastic waste of money,” White House legislative director Marc Short tells MSNBC: “I’m not sure honouring the military is a waste of money.”

WATCH: James Mattis says they’re working on options for a military parade

0:22 James Mattis says they’re working on options for a military parade

Short says it’s too early to know how much the parade would cost.

READ MORE: Donald Trump asks the Pentagon for a military parade

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders confirmed Trump’s request for a parade on Tuesday. She says Trump wants the Pentagon to “explore a celebration” that would allow Americans to show appreciation for the military.

WATCH: Donald Trump wants to celebrate July 4th with military parade in Washington D.C. (July, 2017) 

A Pentagon spokesman, Charlie Summers, says Pentagon officials are aware of the request and are “looking at options.”

0:54 Donald Trump wants to celebrate July 4th with military parade in Washington D.C.