Americans Celebrate 250th Anniversary Despite 100-Degree Heat, Storms and Deep Political Divisions
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 4
Americans Celebrate 250th Anniversary Despite 100-Degree Heat, Storms and Deep Political Divisions
3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jul 4
Summary
40 minutes of fireworks over the National Mall capped nationwide Fourth of July celebrations as Americans filled parks, beaches, bars and backyards for the country’s 250th birthday.
Triple-digit heat and fast-moving storms disrupted marquee events: Washington canceled a morning parade and scrapped most of Trump’s five-hour program, while Boston concertgoers sheltered in a tunnel before festivities resumed.
Trump took the stage after 11 p.m. before a reduced crowd, delivering a speech that mixed American history, praise for veterans and his political priorities.
Political strains still surfaced as Patriot Front members marched in Washington and anti-Trump, anti-Iran-war protesters gathered in Philadelphia, underscoring the divisions shadowing the anniversary.
Polls captured that split mood: nearly 80% said they would set aside political differences to celebrate for a day, while more than a third said neighbors might need violence to restore founding ideals.