**Trump Warns of Communist Threat as Washington Parade Cancelled Amid Heatwave**
*By Fortunato Pinto with AP*
*Published on 04/07/2026 - 12:17 GMT+2*
As the United States prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence, former President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning about what he describes as a "mortal threat" posed by communism to American liberty. His remarks come in the wake of a series of cancellations and disruptions due to extreme weather conditions affecting the nation.
In a speech delivered at Mount Rushmore on Friday, Trump emphasized the significance of the communist threat, stating, "Communism is a mortal threat to American liberty. It is the greatest threat to our country." His comments reflect ongoing political polarization within the United States, particularly as the nation marks a significant historical milestone.
The celebrations are set to take place on Saturday, but the anticipated festivities in Washington, D.C., have been severely impacted by a brutal heatwave sweeping across parts of the country. The Independence Day parade, which was scheduled to be a highlight of the celebrations, has been cancelled due to soaring temperatures expected to reach a staggering 46°C (115°F) in the capital. This decision follows the temporary closure of the Great American State Fair on Friday during the peak of the heat.
While the capital faces extreme conditions, other parts of the country are experiencing different weather patterns. In stark contrast, the Pacific Northwest enjoyed milder temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit (around 15°C) with occasional light showers, providing a respite from the heat affecting much of the nation.
The Fourth of July celebrations will still proceed in other cities, with fireworks planned for locations such as Navy Pier in Chicago and New York City. However, the ongoing heatwave and its effects on public safety have raised concerns among officials and residents alike.
Additionally, the western United States is grappling with devastating wildfires, particularly in Colorado and Utah, where thousands of residents have been evacuated and over 160 structures have been destroyed. In response to the crisis, the National Guard has been deployed to assist with security operations and support affected communities.
As Trump prepares to take a central role in the Independence Day festivities, his warnings about communism resonate amid the backdrop of a nation facing both environmental challenges and deepening political divides. The combination of extreme weather and the ongoing discourse about ideological threats is shaping the narrative of this year's celebration of American independence.
The events of this weekend serve as a reminder of the complexities facing the nation as it reflects on its history and the challenges that lie ahead.