US marks 250 years divided amid heatwave and Trump's warnings

The United States marks its 250th anniversary this Saturday, a celebration overshadowed by profound national division and a severe heatwave impacting an estimated 160 million Americans. The extreme temperatures have led to numerous cancellations of local festivities and parades, including Washington's annual Independence Day parade, which was called off due to the intense heat.

Amidst these challenges, President Donald Trump has seized the celebratory occasion to amplify his political message. He has accused "radicals and extremists" of attacking the country's identity and warned of a resurgence of "the threat of communism." Trump has consistently linked the rise of the left wing of the Democratic Party to this perceived threat, particularly as the midterm elections approach.

Trump's rhetoric, while not reaching the intensity of his past anti-immigrant statements, clearly targets those who he believes are undermining American values. "They don't have to be born here, but they have to love what we've built," he stated, emphasizing a particular vision of national identity. This message comes shortly after he delivered a speech at Mount Rushmore, highlighting the nation's exceptionalism while simultaneously warning of internal threats.

The president himself plans to proceed with a campaign-style rally on the National Mall in Washington, featuring military airshows and what is being promoted as the world's largest fireworks display. Trump acknowledged the extreme heat, noting it would be around 107 degrees Fahrenheit (41 degrees Celsius), but stated his intention to deliver a long speech "just to show that I can do anything."