Trump says American identity is under ‘renewed attack’ ahead of US 250th anniversary

US President Donald Trump said America is facing a new threat to its identity, blaming “radicals and extremists” during a speech on Friday, just before the country’s 250th Independence Day celebrations.

Speaking at Mount Rushmore, Trump praised America’s history and former presidents. He said, “As we approach this magnificent anniversary, we see our American identity under a renewed attack.” He also claimed there was “a resurgence of the communist menace in our land.”

Trump has made similar comments in recent weeks, accusing the left wing of the Democratic Party of becoming stronger ahead of the November midterm elections. He has repeatedly described “communists” as a major “threat” to the United States.

Trump also said, “In recent years, there’s been an undeniable attempt to change this exceptional character, to beat the American spirit out of us, alienate us from our history.” He added, “You do not have to be born here, but you do have to love what we have built.”

Some of Trump’s supporters have even proposed adding his face to Mount Rushmore beside George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

On July 4, Trump is expected to hold a campaign-style rally on the National Mall in Washington. The event will include military flyovers and what he has called the world’s biggest fireworks display.

However, the celebrations come at a time when the country remains politically divided. Trump’s approval ratings have fallen due to the Iran war and rising living costs. His opponents have criticised his immigration policies, his family’s growing wealth and his efforts to expand presidential powers.

Some anniversary events have also faced problems. A Trump-linked group called Freedom 250 has taken over many celebrations from the bipartisan America250 organisation, causing some people to stay away. A “Great American State Fair” in Washington has also seen low attendance and criticism.

A severe heatwave has also affected the celebrations. Trump said temperatures could reach about 107°F (41°C), but added he would still give “a really long speech” to show he could handle the heat.

Meanwhile, a recent Quinnipiac University Poll found that 61% of Americans believe the country is not living up to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Opinions were divided along party lines, with most Republicans saying it is, while most Democrats disagreed.

Amy Kimaara, a teacher from Los Angeles, said, “The Fourth of July really is a moment of freedom, but I have to be honest, in these political times, it hasn’t been as exciting to me.”