President Donald Trump speaks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Friday, July 3, 2026, near Keystone, SD. (Photo: AP)
The United States is marking its 250th Independence Day with parades, fireworks and nationwide celebrations, but the anniversary has also highlighted deep political divisions over immigration, national identity and America’s future. President Donald Trump kicked off the celebrations with a speech at Mount Rushmore praising American exceptionalism while warning against what he called the threat of communism. At the same time, Pope Leo XIV spent July 4 on the Italian island of Lampedusa, urging the US and Europe to show greater compassion towards migrants.
Politics, protests and celebrations dominate America250
Extreme heat has disrupted several America250 events, forcing organisers to cancel or delay parades and outdoor programmes in cities including Washington and Philadelphia, while the biggest fireworks displays, concerts and celebrations are still scheduled across the country. The contrast between Trump’s patriotic message and the pope’s appeal for migrants has added another political dimension to a milestone anniversary meant to celebrate America’s founding ideals.
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Top updates
- America marks its 250th Independence Day with nationwide celebrations.
- Donald Trump addresses supporters at Mount Rushmore, praising American exceptionalism and warning against communism.
- Pope Leo XIV visits Lampedusa to honour migrants who died crossing the Mediterranean.
- The pope urges the US and Europe to welcome, protect and support migrants.
- Fireworks, concerts and major public events continue across Washington, New York and other US cities.
- Extreme heat forces changes to several America250 celebrations.
- The anniversary unfolds amid political debate over immigration, national identity and America’s future.
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