This weekend marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone that should unite Americans in reflection. However, former President Donald Trump has dominated the narrative, using the occasion to centre attention on himself rather than the nation's founding ideals.
As the anniversary approaches, political commentator Jonathan Freedland discussed the phenomenon with Yoni Appelbaum of The Atlantic. They explored why many Americans are feeling less patriotic this year, with the celebration becoming a polarising event rather than a unifying one.
Appelbaum argued that Trump's actions are symptomatic of a broader decline in national cohesion. The former president's focus on personal grievances and his continued influence over the Republican Party have diverted focus from the historical significance of the 250th anniversary.
The podcast, produced by the Daily Mail, highlights how the anniversary has been hijacked by political infighting, leaving some citizens questioning the very meaning of patriotism in modern America.
