Trump headlines 250th anniversary rally with partisan attacks amid heat wave

U.S. President Donald Trump marked the nation's 250th anniversary with a partisan rally on the National Mall, capping a series of events criticized as divisive. Trump began the celebrations with a speech at Mount Rushmore, framing progressive Democrats and immigrants as a "communist menace" and an existential threat to American identity.

Across the country, Americans planned traditional July 4th celebrations, but Washington faced stepped-up security, potential thunderstorms, and temperatures topping 100F (38C). Trump's administration has largely sidelined a nonpartisan anniversary body, with its Freedom 250 group organizing events. These include a "Great American State Fair" on the National Mall, a faith rally, and mixed martial arts bouts. Critics have accused the organization of promoting a narrow, religious view of American history that overlooks issues like slavery.

Many performers and Democratic-led states declined to send delegations, citing concerns about partisanship. A Reuters/Ipsos poll indicated that a majority of Americans believe the anniversary events have become too political. Trump has also overseen renovations in the capital, though some projects, like the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool, have faced issues.