Politics
Trump leads US 250th Independence Day celebrations with Mount Rushmore speech, Washington rally
July 13, 2026 at 03:29 PM · Updated 95d ago
President Donald Trump has begun the 250th anniversary of US independence with a speech at Mount Rushmore, ahead of a July 4 rally in Washington.
- Trump started the celebrations with a speech at Mount Rushmore on Friday.
- Republican lawmakers introduced a bill to carve Trump's face into the mountain alongside four former presidents.
- Trump said he will deliver a "very long speech" on July 4 to prove his ability to endure temperatures reaching 41°C.
- Trump plans a rally at the National Mall featuring a military aircraft flyover and a fireworks display he described as the largest in the world.
Latest developments
- Trump said he is honored to have his signature on a commemorative $100 bill for America's 250th anniversary but insisted he never sought the recognition.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans to feature Trump's image on a coin marking the 250th independence anniversary.