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Trump Declares Two New National Holidays Without Legal Force

May 8 and November 11 are proclaimed as symbolic commemorations of World War II and World War I victories, but lack congressional approval to become federal holidays.

The U.S. Flag flies at the Capitol in Washington, Feb. 6, 2023.
Donald Trump has declared May 8 a national holiday.
FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a swearing-in ceremony for the new U.S. ambassador to China, former U.S. Senator David Perdue, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 7, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis/File Photo
Donald Trump declares May 8 Victory Day for World War II

Overview

  • President Trump announced May 8 as 'Victory Day for World War II' and November 11 to commemorate the World War I armistice, emphasizing America's role in both victories.
  • These proclamations are symbolic and do not carry the legal status of federal holidays, as only Congress can designate such holidays.
  • Routine operations, including banks, post offices, stock markets, and government offices, remain unaffected and continue normal operations on May 8.
  • Trump clarified that the new holidays would not include closures or days off, citing an already crowded holiday calendar in the U.S.
  • May 8 aligns with Victory in Europe Day, marking Germany's surrender in 1945, while November 11 overlaps with Veterans Day, which already commemorates the WWI armistice.