[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] On the 4th, Independence Day (local time), U.S. President Donald Trump vowed to protect American history and criticized the progressive camp and the media's movement to address past wrongs triggered by anti-racism protests.
President Trump delivered a Fourth of July celebration speech at the White House that evening, stating, "We are in the process of defeating radical leftists, Marxists, anarchists, agitators, and looters," and emphasized, "We will never allow angry mobs to tear down our statues, erase our history, indoctrinate our children, or trample on our freedoms," adding, "We will protect and preserve the American way of life that began when Columbus discovered America in 1492."
He broadly condemned attempts to destroy statues of figures with histories of supporting slavery and other controversial backgrounds, including the nationwide anti-racism movement, as agitation by radical leftists and anarchists. President Trump said, "We want to clearly and faithfully protect American history. We are one America, and we put America first," adding, "Their goal is destruction."
President Trump also stated that the past is not a burden and that American heroes will not be discarded but honored. He listed historical figures recently subject to controversy, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, and seemingly mindful of Black supporters, he also mentioned civil rights icon Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. He criticized the mainstream media, saying, "They not only slander me but also slander the American people and the heroes of every generation who have dedicated their lives to America."
President Trump continued his criticism of China, citing the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). He said, "COVID-19 spread worldwide due to China's deception and cover-up," and added, "China must be held fully accountable." He then reiterated claims that the Trump administration's response was effective, saying, "We have made a lot of progress, and our strategy is working well."
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