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New York Post

Navy Reserve Officer Observes Patriotism During NYC Celebration

Ben Brown, a Navy reserve officer from Seattle, participated in the 250th anniversary celebrations in New York City. He expressed surprise at the number of people who wanted to take photos with him while he was in uniform during the events.

Guardian — US

Reflection on the US Bicentennial and National Sentiment

The 1976 bicentennial of the United States was a significant celebration that aimed to unify diverse groups of people. President Gerald Ford's inauguration speech in 1974 highlighted the political challenges faced by the nation leading up to this event.

Fox News — Latest

Trump Pardons Nine Individuals Convicted of Emissions Control Violations

President Donald Trump has pardoned nine individuals convicted of violating the Clean Air Act by tampering with diesel vehicle emissions controls. The pardons were announced on July 4, 2026, with Trump asserting that the individuals were unjustly punished. The pardoned individuals included mechanics and tuners involved in the sale of devices that bypass emissions controls.

Fox News — Politics

Trump Grants Pardons to Nine Individuals Convicted of Emissions Violations

On July 4, 2026, President Donald Trump pardoned nine individuals convicted of violating the Clean Air Act by tampering with diesel vehicle emissions-control systems. The pardons included diesel mechanics and car tuners who had been prosecuted for selling illegal 'defeat devices.' Trump claimed the individuals were unfairly targeted by the Biden Administration.

Fox News — Latest

Pope Leo XIV Addresses Immigration and Human Rights in Virtual Speech

Pope Leo XIV spoke at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, urging Americans to embrace their history of welcoming immigrants. He highlighted the need for compassion towards migrants during his subsequent visit to Lampedusa, Italy, where he called for comprehensive policies to address the migrant crisis. His views have drawn criticism from some political leaders.

Fox News — Politics

Pope Leo XIV Addresses Immigration and Freedom in Virtual Speech

Pope Leo XIV spoke at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, urging Americans to uphold the nation's tradition of welcoming immigrants. He emphasized the importance of the Declaration of Independence and called for compassion towards migrants during his subsequent visit to Lampedusa, Italy, a hotspot for migration into Europe.

Fox News — Politics

Pope Leo XIV Addresses Immigration in Virtual Speech at Liberty Medal Ceremony

Pope Leo XIV spoke at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, advocating for the acceptance of immigrants and emphasizing America's founding principles of freedom. He later traveled to Lampedusa, where he called for Europe to adopt comprehensive policies to support migrants and address the root causes of migration.

The Hill

World leaders congratulate America on its 250th anniversary

On July 4, 2026, global leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, congratulated the United States on its 250th anniversary. Von der Leyen emphasized the significance of the U.S.-European relationship in her message.

apnews.com

U.S. Celebrates 250th Independence Day Amid Political Polarization and Heat Wave

The United States is celebrating its 250th Independence Day amid political polarization and a heat wave affecting many states. President Donald Trump is set to speak at a major event in Washington, while various celebrations and fireworks displays are planned across the country. The festivities come at a time of reflection on America's history and current challenges, with notable figures commenting on the nation's political climate.

Guardian — US

Trump Issues 11 Pardons on July 4th Eve

Former President Donald Trump granted pardons to 11 individuals on July 4, 2026. This group includes two fraud convicts and nine individuals charged with violations of the Clean Air Act related to truck emissions controls.

Fox News — Latest

California Governor Newsom Criticized for Stance on Trans Athletes Following Supreme Court Ruling

California Governor Gavin Newsom is under scrutiny for allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls' sports, following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld laws banning males from women's sports. Newsom's office maintains that California's laws will not change, emphasizing a commitment to LGBTQ rights. The situation has sparked protests and criticism from women's sports advocates.

Fox News — Politics

North Carolina Governor Criticized for Not Participating in America 250 Event

North Carolina's Governor Josh Stein faced criticism from Rep. Chuck Edwards for not sponsoring a booth at the Great American State Fair, with Edwards accusing him of prioritizing politics over patriotism. The state cited budget constraints for the decision, while controversy also arose over the display of Confederate flags at the booth, which were subsequently removed.

Fox News — Latest

North Carolina Governor Criticized for Boycotting America 250 Event

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein faced criticism from Rep. Chuck Edwards for not participating in the Great American State Fair, which celebrates America's 250th birthday. The state cited budget constraints for the decision, while Edwards accused the governor of prioritizing partisanship. The North Carolina booth, funded by private sponsors, drew controversy for initially including Confederate flags, which were later removed.

Fox News — Politics

North Carolina Governor Criticized for Skipping America 250 Event

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein faced criticism from Rep. Chuck Edwards for not sponsoring a booth at the Great American State Fair, with Edwards claiming the decision was politically motivated. The state cited budget constraints for its absence, while other Democratic governors also opted out due to concerns over partisanship. The North Carolina booth was further criticized for displaying Confederate flags, which were subsequently removed.