Billionaire heiress Christy Walton, one of the wealthiest women in America, is under fire from the White House and facing distancing remarks from Walmart after she funded a full-page ad in The New York Times that many interpreted as a veiled call for nationwide protests against President Donald Trump.
The ad, which ran Sunday, was published under the banner “NO KINGS,” referencing the grassroots civic group No Kings, which is organizing over 1,800 protests across the United States timed to coincide with Trump’s military parade scheduled for this weekend.
Though the ad does not mention the president by name, it strongly echoes progressive critiques of Trump’s leadership. It declares:
“We are a people of principle and honor… We defend against aggression by dictators. We uphold and defend the Constitution… The honor, dignity, and integrity of our country are not for sale. Our government is of the people, by the people, for the people.”
In a statement to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for Walton clarified that the ad was intended to encourage peaceful civic engagement, not to fund or endorse the recent protests erupting in cities like Los Angeles.
“Christy has provided no funding to organizations or individuals involved in the demonstrations in Los Angeles or elsewhere,” the statement said. “Her message promotes civic engagement, peaceful dialogue, and the sharing of diverse views.”
The spokesperson emphasized Walton’s condemnation of violence and framed her message as a nonpartisan call to uphold democratic values and respectful civic discourse.
The White House was quick to criticize the ad. A spokesperson labeled it a “tone-deaf PR stunt” disconnected from the political mandate voters gave President Trump in the 2024 election.
“Over 77 million Americans voted for mass deportations, border security, and America First trade policies,” the spokesperson said. “A left-wing billionaire burning through inheritance money won’t change that.”
Walmart, the retail giant tied to the Walton fortune, also sought to separate itself from Christy Walton’s activism. In a statement, the company 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 company decision-making.”
Walmart reiterated its opposition to violence and emphasized its concern for the safety of employees and communities affected by ongoing protests.
“We condemn violence, including when directed at law enforcement or property. We remain focused on supporting our associates and customers, particularly in the Los Angeles region.”
The controversy comes as tensions escalate nationwide amid Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts and public backlash. In Los Angeles, anti-ICE demonstrations have sparked curfews, arrests, and an emergency federal deployment of troops.
With input from Fox News
