Amid US COVID Surge, Trump Continues Large-Scale Independence Day Celebrations (Comprehensive)

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Amid an emergency situation in the United States where more than 50,000 new COVID-19 cases are reported daily due to the resurgence of the novel coronavirus, President Donald Trump is facing growing criticism for leading large-scale Independence Day events for two consecutive days.

On the 4th (local time), according to the World Health Organization (WHO) data on COVID-19 cases by country, the U.S. reported 53,213 new cases in the past 24 hours, maintaining a daily count of over 50,000 cases throughout this month. Despite this situation, President Trump delivered a speech at the White House on the evening of the 4th, Independence Day (local time). The White House speech focused on fiercely attacking the progressive camp and the media, targeting the movement to address past issues triggered by the anti-racism protests.

The White House lawn where the event was held was filled with attendees, most of whom were not wearing masks, and social distancing was reportedly not observed. Although U.S. health authorities strongly urged the public to wear masks and maintain social distancing due to concerns that the Independence Day holiday could trigger a surge in COVID-19 cases, these warnings were ignored.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

An airshow featuring the U.S. Navy and Air Force’s special flight teams, the 'Blue Angels' and 'Thunderbirds,' was also held. Fighters such as the B-29 and P-51, which were deployed during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, decorated the skies over Washington DC alongside bombers like the B-1 and B-2. The U.S. Army’s parachute team, the 'Golden Knights,' also performed a scene where they unfurled the American flag in midair.

Fireworks began after 9 p.m. that night, with the U.S. Department of the Interior announcing it would be the largest fireworks display in recent times. Crowds gathered near the Lincoln Memorial and other areas close to the White House to watch the fireworks. This was in stark contrast to the nationwide cancellation of 80% of fireworks events during the Independence Day holiday.

President Trump had also flown to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota the previous day to attend the pre-Independence Day fireworks event. The site features large sculptures of four former U.S. presidents, including George Washington. Although 7,500 people gathered, very few wore masks, and social distancing was not observed.