Christy Walton, an heiress to the Walmart fortune, is facing public anger from Republican leaders and Trump supporters after she paid for a full-page ad in The New York Times supporting the “No Kings Day” protest. The ad calls on Americans to speak out against what organizers say is a rise in authoritarian leadership in the United States. The event is scheduled for Saturday, the same day as former President Donald Trump’s birthday and a military celebration of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.
Christy Walton’s Ad Triggers Political Fallout
The ad, which ran last Sunday, urges Americans to come together and take part in a national day of protest. It includes statements such as “WE respect our neighbors and trading partners” and “WE defend against aggression by dictators.” Although it does not name Trump, the message, timing, and tone suggest that it targets him directly. The ad’s alignment with an anti-authoritarian message and its connection to Trump’s birthday have caused many to see it as an attack on his leadership.
The ad also includes an image of the Statue of Liberty and promotes “No Kings Day” as a pushback against leaders who, in the words of the movement, are abusing power. More than 100 pro-democracy groups are behind the event. The group Indivisible, one of the key organizers, has described the protests as a way to show resistance to “cruelty, corruption, and authoritarianism.” They expect events to happen in all 50 states and in over 1,500 cities.
Republican Leaders and MAGA Voices Call for Boycott
The ad quickly caught the attention of Republican lawmakers and Trump allies. Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna posted a screenshot of the ad and claimed that the protests were led by “far-left” activists. She also accused the Walton family of opposing Trump’s trade policies, especially tariffs on goods from China.
Kari Lake, who works as a special adviser at a U.S. media agency, asked her social media followers if they still shop at Walmart. She appeared to support calls to boycott the store. Others, including the group Libs of Chicago, said Walton’s actions were out of step with her family’s business, calling it “ironic” that someone tied to Walmart would support such protests. They argued that “if there was ever a time to boycott Walmart, it’s now.”
These reactions have helped drive a growing online movement to cut ties with Walmart, even though Christy Walton does not hold a position at the company.
Walmart Issues Statement Separating Itself from Walton
In response to the rising backlash, Walmart quickly issued a public statement making it clear that Walton’s political activity has nothing to do with the company. The retailer said, “The advertisements from Christy Walton are in no way connected to or endorsed by Walmart. She does not serve on the board or play any role in decision-making at Walmart.”
Walmart also reminded the public that Walton, while a member of the Walton family, has no say in company policies. Christy Walton, who is 76, became one of the world’s richest women after the death of her husband, John T. Walton, who was a son of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Her net worth is estimated at over $19 billion.
Christy Walton has supported Democratic causes in the past. She helped raise money for Vice President Kamala Harris and has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to Democratic candidates and groups.
Background on Tariffs and Corporate Concerns
Walmart has often voiced concern about tariffs introduced during Trump’s term in office. As one of the largest importers of consumer goods in the country, Walmart brings in a large share of its products from overseas. The company has said that tariffs, especially on goods from China, raise prices for shoppers.
Though the current boycott calls are mostly political, the issue also highlights a deeper concern many companies face when family members or former insiders get involved in political campaigns. Even if a company is not directly involved, it may still have to respond to public reactions, especially when it comes to sensitive political topics.
What Comes Next
The “No Kings Day” protests are set to happen this weekend. Organizers say their message is not just about Trump, but about defending democratic norms. They have said the protests are aimed at stopping power abuse and promoting fairness in government.
Meanwhile, Republican voices continue to press for boycotts. Supporters of Trump argue that the protests are a personal attack on him. They believe Walton’s ad is just another example of what they see as political bias in wealthy circles.
This incident shows how a political ad—especially when tied to a powerful family name—can quickly turn into a national debate. As protests go forward and the election season heats up, more businesses and public figures may find themselves pulled into the fight, even if they did not intend to be.
