Donald Trump committed the one sin that even his base cannot forgive: he was boring. The 250th anniversary celebration on the National Mall, delayed four hours by lightning, featured Teleprompter Trump, who stayed on script but still veered into petty grievances and obsessions.
A Long Wait for a Lackluster Address
The crowd, estimated by Trump at 375,000 before evacuation and 150,000 after, endured sun, wind, and rain. Trump's speech began with exaggerated crowd numbers, reminiscent of his inauguration claims. He spoke with imperial hubris, declaring America the hope and light of the world, but his delivery was flat.
Petty Grievances and Historical Segues
Trump acknowledged the founding fathers and American virtues but added an aside about being treated unfairly. He boasted about sinking the Iranian navy, claiming 159 ships, and pushed for voter ID laws, calling it the Save America Act. He introduced centenarian veterans but quickly pivoted to attacking the Democratic party as godless communists.
A Partisan Spectacle
The event was distinctly partisan, with hats reading "Make America great again" and "Trump was right about everything." Many attendees refused to evacuate during lightning, chanting "USA! USA!" and "We want Trump!" Some even called for "January 6 mark II." The fireworks, accompanied by YMCA, were touted as the biggest ever.
Not Everyone Came for Trump
Kenneth Edwards, 43, a teacher from Tallahassee, Florida, drove 13 hours for the fireworks and his daughter's TikTok video. "I don't get into all of the politics and stuff, man," he said. "I just wanted to bring my kids to see some really cool fireworks."
