Billionaire Walmart heiress Christy Walton is facing heat from the White House — and distancing from Walmart — after taking out a full-page ad that appeared to rally Americans against President Donald Trump.
The ad, published in The New York Times, featured the phrase “NO KINGS,” a nod to the No Kings organization that’s organizing over 1,800 anti-Trump protests nationwide this weekend. The timing? Right before Trump’s highly anticipated military parade.
Though the ad never names Trump, its message is unmistakable. It echoes classic liberal themes: honoring allies, upholding the Constitution, caring for veterans and children, defending against dictators, and protecting the environment.
“We are the people of the United States of America,” the ad ends. “The honor, dignity, and integrity of our country are not for sale. Our government is of the people, by the people, for the people.”
Walton’s camp quickly issued a statement to Fox News Digital, clarifying her intentions. “The personal ad message from Christy Walton published, Sunday, June 8, focuses on encouraging people to engage peacefully and civically in next weekend’s events on June 14th,” a spokesperson said.
“She has provided no funding to individuals or groups involved in the riots in Los Angeles or other cities,” the statement continued. “Her message is about civic engagement, peaceful dialogue, and sharing diverse views. She condemns violence in all forms.”
But the White House wasn’t buying it.
“Great, a left-wing billionaire feels like burning some of her inheritance for a PR stunt,” a spokesperson said. “It’s not going to change the fact that over 77 million Americans voted for mass deportations, border security, and America First trade policies — a mandate that the Trump administration is committed to using every lever of executive power to deliver on.”
Walmart also moved to separate itself from the controversy. “The advertisements from Christy Walton are in no way connected to or endorsed by Walmart,” the company told Fox News Digital. “She does not serve on the board or play any role in decision making at Walmart.”
Walmart’s statement also made its stance on violence clear: “We condemn violence, including when it’s directed towards law enforcement, and the damaging of property. Our focus remains on the safety of our associates and customers, especially in the Los Angeles region.”
Andrew Cook, a spokesperson for No Kings, told Forbes that the protests will span the country. He confirmed that over 1,800 events are planned to challenge the administration’s policies.