‘They’ll talk about America’s sins’ - Vance blasts US critics on 250th anniversary

Vice President JD Vance delivered a sharp rebuke to critics of the United States during a July Fourth address, urging Americans to reject what he called a "two-dimensional view" of their country and fellow citizens. Speaking from the deck of the USS Kearsarge in New York Harbor, Vance framed the nation's 250th anniversary as a moment to celebrate its greatness, not dwell on its flaws.

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You will hear a couple small but loud voices today speak obsessively not of our national greatness, but of our national imperfections.

"You will hear a couple small but loud voices today speak obsessively not of our national greatness, but of our national imperfections," Vance declared. He likened these critics to "brimstone preachers" who speak of "America's sins" with anger but without the grace and forgiveness inherent in the Christian faith. Vance asserted that such perspectives fundamentally misunderstand the essence of America.

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They’ll talk about America’s sins with the anger and zeal of a brimstone preacher, but without any of the grace or forgiveness that must be present in the Christian faith.

His speech coincided with the arrival of dozens of tall ships from over 20 countries, participating in celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The event featured military jet flyovers, including the Blue Angels, adding a patriotic spectacle to the harbor.

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misunderstand the essence of America.

Vance's rhetoric closely mirrored that of President Donald Trump, who had previously decried "radicals and extremists" and warned of a "resurgence of the communist menace." These speeches highlight the deep political divisions within the United States as it marks a significant historical milestone. However, celebrations were partly threatened by a severe heatwave across the eastern U.S., with New York City experiencing a heat index of 105F (41C).

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reject the two-dimensional view of your fellow citizens and reject the two-dimensional view of your country.