Donald Trump is facing accusations of "hijacking" the celebrations for America's 250th anniversary, with opponents claiming he is leveraging events around July 4 to promote his political agenda. The holiday commemorates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
On Friday, the White House released an image of a limited edition "Patriot Passport" featuring Trump leaning over the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, surrounded by text from the Declaration of Independence. The president is also scheduled to deliver a speech at Mount Rushmore on July 3.
Plans for July 4 include a rally on Washington's National Mall, featuring military flypasts and culminating in a fireworks display over the White House. However, Democratic congressman Jared Huffman of California stated, "He is trying to hijack the country's 250th anniversary."
Some musicians have withdrawn from a planned concert, citing that they felt "misled" about the event's political nature. A source close to Trump dismissed the criticism as "sour grapes," asserting, "Donald Trump will definitely be front and centre because he's the President."