Donald Trump has launched America's 250th birthday weekend with a fiery attack on what he called the 'communist menace' in the United States. Speaking for half an hour on Friday night at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, the US president delivered a partisan speech that marked the latest stop on his tour celebrating the milestone anniversary of the US declaration of independence from Britain.
Speech at Mount Rushmore
The event, set against the iconic backdrop of the four presidential faces carved into the mountain, drew thousands of attendees. Trump used the platform to criticize political opponents and warn against left-wing ideologies, framing the anniversary as a moment to defend American values. 'We must protect our heritage, our history, and our great American way of life from the communist menace,' he said, according to pool reports.
Partisan tone draws criticism
The speech was widely seen as a campaign-style rally, with Trump attacking Democrats and the media. Critics accused him of politicizing a national celebration. 'This is not a time for division but for unity,' said a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee. The event also sparked controversy over the use of Mount Rushmore, which is considered sacred by some Native American tribes.
Background of the tour
Trump's tour includes stops at historic sites and military installations, aiming to energize his base ahead of the upcoming election. The Mount Rushmore address was one of the most prominent, featuring fireworks and a flyover by military aircraft. The president's remarks focused on patriotism and the threat of 'far-left fascism,' a term he has used repeatedly on the campaign trail.
