President Donald Trump appeared to nod off during the July 4th fireworks display in Washington DC, sparking a wave of criticism online. The 80-year-old president marked the 250th anniversary of American independence on Saturday after thunderstorms caused a two-hour evacuation of the National Mall.
Democrat Harry Sissons leads criticism
Prominent Democrat Harry Sissons alleged Trump was 'falling asleep' during the festivities, stating: 'Trump seen falling asleep during the fireworks in DC for America's 250th. Incredibly embarrassing and concerning.' Journalist Aaron Rupar also ridiculed the president, saying: 'Trump 'blinks' during the fireworks show in DC.'
Previous incident in Oval Office
Trump, who turned 80 on June 14, has faced similar claims before. Last month, Democrats alleged he dropped off during an Oval Office meeting about 'clean coal.' As Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum spoke, Trump reclined and appeared to shut his eyes. California Governor Gavin Newsom's team said: 'DOZY DON IS BACK (HE NEVER LEFT).' The White House hit back, with the Trump X account Rapid Response 47 posting: 'His eyes are literally open in the clip you posted, you dumba** mouth-breathers.'
Trump's July 4th address
Following the fireworks, Trump delivered an address blending partisan politics with patriotic messaging. He hailed the occasion as 'one of the most joyous and glorious milestones of all time.' He paid tribute to veterans, including World War II servicemen and one of the first black officers to command a Special Forces unit in Vietnam. Trump said: 'We will always be on top, we will never let our country fall. We will always be the best.' He also joked about pursuing a third presidential term and called the World War II generation 'the greatest generation,' adding: 'I hate to admit that, but they are.'
