US turns 250 as Trump warns of 'attack' on identity

President Donald Trump decried what he called a fresh threat against the United States' identity, targeting domestic "radicals and extremists" as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary of independence. Speaking at Mount Rushmore, a site featuring colossal carved heads of four former presidents, Trump delivered a speech steeped in patriotism, extolling American exceptionalism and praising historical leaders.

"As we approach this magnificent anniversary, we see our American identity under a renewed attack," Trump declared. He asserted that there was "a resurgence of the communist menace in our land," a theme he has frequently emphasized in recent weeks. Trump has characterized the rise of the left wing of the Democratic Party, which has seen success in US primary elections, as a major "threat" posed by "communists" ahead of the November midterm elections.

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As we approach this magnificent anniversary, we see our American identity under a renewed attack.

"In recent years there's been an undeniable attempt to change this exceptional character, to beat the American spirit out of us, alienate us from our history," Trump stated. While his rhetoric stopped short of the more aggressive anti-immigrant language he has used previously, the underlying message was clear: "You do not have to be born here, but you do have to love what we have built."

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In recent years there's been an undeniable attempt to change this exceptional character, to beat the American spirit out of us, alienate us from our history.

The president, who views himself as a significant historical figure, has sought to imbue the nation's 250th anniversary with his own political brand. Plans for July 4th included a campaign-style rally on the National Mall in Washington, featuring military flyovers and what was billed as the world's largest fireworks display. However, the US remains deeply divided, with Trump's approval ratings near historic lows, influenced by the war in Iran and a soaring cost of living. Democrats have criticized his immigration policies, his family's accumulating wealth, and his attempts to expand presidential power.

Furthermore, Trump's efforts to imprint his political identity on the anniversary have encountered setbacks. A Trump-linked organization, "Freedom 250," has taken significant control over festivities, overshadowing the bipartisan "America 250" group, leading to reduced participation in key events. A "Great American State Fair" in the capital drew sparse crowds and considerable mockery for its empty booths. A record-breaking heatwave also deterred many potential attendees, though Trump himself declared the event a success.

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You do not have to be born here, but you do have to love what we have built.