America’s 250th Birthday in Turmoil | Des Moines News

Des Moines News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 2, 2026 · 1m

As the U.S. prepares for its 250th birthday, Independence Day feels increasingly divisive—1 in 5 Americans say they won’t celebrate, crossing party lines. Past anniversaries also coincided with national turmoil, and today’s political climate, especially President Trump’s central role, has turned the festivities into a polarizing event. The White House’s “Freedom 250” initiative has clashed with the congressional commission, sparking backlash and causing some states and artists to pull out. Amid deepening partisan divides, organizers are left wondering: Can this holiday still bring the nation…