By Palang Paul
President of the United States of America Donald Trump said America’s national identity is under renewed attack as the Nation marked the 250th anniversary of its independence amid deep political divisions and a severe nationwide heatwave.
The anniversary celebrations took place across the United States on Saturday July 4th 2026, with millions of Americans participating in events despite extreme temperatures affecting large parts of the country. President Trump headlined the festivities with an address at Mount Rushmore National Memorial on Friday before scheduled Independence Day events in Washington, D.C.
Speaking beneath the monument honouring former presidents, Trump praised American history and leadership but argued that the nation’s identity was facing renewed threats. He accused domestic “radicals and extremists” of attempting to undermine American values and warned of what he described as a resurgence of communist ideology ahead of the November midterm elections.
The president also reiterated his call for patriotism, saying that while people do not have to be born in the United States, they must appreciate and defend the country’s achievements. His remarks continued a theme that has featured prominently in his recent political messaging.
The celebrations coincided with a major heatwave that placed about 160 million Americans under heat warnings, forcing several communities to adjust outdoor activities. Nevertheless, Trump proceeded with plans for a large rally on the National Mall featuring military flyovers and a fireworks display.
The milestone anniversary also prompted reflection on the country’s progress after two and a half centuries marked by independence, civil war, struggles over slavery and civil rights, economic growth, and global conflicts.
A recent Quinnipiac University poll found that 61 per cent of Americans believe the country is not fully living up to the ideals contained in the Declaration of Independence, highlighting continuing political and ideological divisions between Republicans and Democrats.
Some citizens expressed concern about growing social and political tensions. Los Angeles artist Johnny Presley said the country was becoming increasingly divided and criticised how people treat one another and foreign neighbours.
Others maintained that the United States continues to offer freedoms worth preserving. Atlanta-based educator Karisa Tavassoli said the country provides important protections, including freedom of speech, religion and personal choice, despite its challenges.
Alonzo Coby, a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, welcomed the anniversary celebrations but noted that Indigenous peoples had lived on the continent long before the founding of the United States.
The 250th Independence anniversary is expected to continue with celebrations across the country as Americans commemorate the nation’s historic milestone while reflecting on its future.
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