WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has launched a 16-day programme of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence with a rally-style speech delivered on Washington’s National Mall, setting a strongly political tone for the national milestone.
Addressing crowds at the opening of the “Great American State Fair”, Trump declared that “America is back”, framing the semiquincentennial as both a historic commemoration and a showcase of his second-term agenda. While he briefly referred to the country’s founding ideals, much of the speech mirrored the tone and structure of his campaign rallies.
The president portrayed the United States as undergoing a resurgence, claiming economic strength and renewed global influence, while criticising former president Joe Biden’s administration as a “total disaster”. He also reiterated disputed claims of massive foreign investment inflows and described the country as the “hottest” in the world.
Trump used parts of the address to highlight foreign policy and national security developments, including controversial assertions regarding recent US military actions in the Middle East and Venezuela. According to AFP, he also described his administration’s record as a series of “historic victories”, particularly in defence and infrastructure.
The event marked the formal opening of nationwide celebrations running through 10 July, featuring exhibitions from all 50 states and six US territories along the National Mall. Organisers have planned cultural showcases, military flyovers, live performances and large-scale installations, including a Ferris wheel and restored historical attractions.
However, the festivities have also attracted criticism, with opponents arguing that the anniversary has taken on an increasingly partisan character under Trump’s leadership. Several performers reportedly withdrew from the programme, citing concerns over political messaging, prompting the president to adjust the entertainment lineup himself.
The revised programme features musicians such as Lee Greenwood, opera singer Christopher Macchio, and performances by US military bands. Trump also promoted the event as a major public spectacle, stating it would surpass previous national celebrations in scale and appeal.
The president used the occasion to reiterate his vision of a renewed American “golden age”, positioning himself as central to the country’s revival. He also drew attention to ongoing renovation projects in Washington, including planned upgrades to historic landmarks, which he said reflected national pride and renewal.
Supporters attending the event praised his leadership, describing him as a strong advocate for American values and national identity. Critics, however, continue to question the blending of official state commemorations with overt political messaging.
The celebrations are expected to continue throughout the coming weeks, culminating around Independence Day with further large-scale events across the capital.
