Le Monde: The 250th Anniversary of American Independence: A Celebration Personalized for Trump
July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of American independence. In a commentary published this Friday, Le Monde observes that what should have been a moment symbolizing national unity has instead become more like a personal glorification ceremony for U.S. President Donald Trump. This pivotal moment is overshadowed by deepening political polarization and a continuous decline in America’s international image.
The editorial states that a nation celebrating its 250th anniversary ought to be an opportunity to demonstrate national solidarity. Yet, this year’s July 4th—commemorating the 1776 Declaration of Independence by the 13 North American colonies breaking away from British rule—lacks any sense of unity. The commemoration has failed to escape the increasingly severe divisions within American society, which Trump has actively fueled, intensifying societal rifts.
Le Monde notes that the very process of organizing the celebrations reflects this division. In 2025, Trump established his own committee, standing in opposition to the official body founded as early as 2016 and jointly managed by both Democratic and Republican parties. One purpose behind this move was to ensure that the narrative of American history would be “purified.” However, a truly great nation is not defined merely by its glorious past, but also by its courage to confront and acknowledge its mistakes.
A Celebration Centered on Trump
Le Monde continues, describing how Trump’s 80th birthday celebration—an MMA event held on the White House lawn, a lucrative sport controlled by one of Trump’s close allies—was followed by his announcement of delivering a lengthy speech on July 4th. What was originally meant to be a national holiday shared by all Americans has, in practice, transformed into a personal celebration for Trump himself. Despite being embroiled in controversy over his February 28 attack on Iran, the U.S. president is expected to seize this occasion to boast about having “made America great again.”
Yet reality falls far short of his rhetoric. According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, America’s international image has significantly deteriorated in recent years. Increasing numbers of people now view the United States not as an aspirational nation nor as a vital force in maintaining global peace and stability.
The "Disruptor"
The editorial further argues that the continuous decline in America’s global reputation stems from a series of policies implemented since Trump’s second term began. Since entering politics in 2015, Trump has often been described as a “disruptor,” recklessly smashing through America’s existing political institutions and social order. This disruptor has not yet stopped.
Ironically, while Trump celebrates the Declaration of Independence—which once harshly condemned the British monarchy for “a long train of abuses and usurpations”—the U.S. Supreme Court has recently expanded presidential executive power, directly contradicting the constitutional principle that the executive branch should be subordinate to Congress.
Meanwhile, the staggering wealth amassed by Trump and those around him since his return to power has been progressively exposed.
Absurdity
The editorial asserts that such an insatiable pursuit of power and wealth would likely shock the nation’s founding fathers if they could see it today. Clearly, this conduct cannot genuinely unite the American people around their president.
Furthermore, facing the escalating crisis of global warming, the current Trump administration refuses to acknowledge the issue and continues suppressing scientific research and public discourse on climate change. It is highly ironic that on this year’s July 4th, Washington, D.C., will experience extreme heatwaves—offering a stark reminder of how absurd Trump’s denial of climate change truly is.
Source: rfi
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1869759158519882/
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