Former President Donald Trump delivered a patriotic address on the eve of the United States’ 250th Independence Day celebrations, speaking from beneath Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. Speaking behind double bulletproof glass on Saturday (AEST), Trump hailed the nation as the “greatest nation in history” and called on Americans to embrace their heritage, emphasising themes of freedom and national pride.

Trump praised the country’s founding fathers, military, and economic achievements while reiterating his opposition to communism, which he described as a significant threat to American liberty. “There is now a resurgence of the communist menace in our land, including from newcomers to our country, who embrace ideas totally opposed to our way of life and our great success,” he said. He added firmly, “America will never be a communist country.”

Throughout the speech, Trump was met with chants of “USA” from the crowd. Reflecting on American identity, he said: “You do not have to be born here, but you do have to love what we have built; you must love our country.” He framed love of freedom as a defining characteristic of Americans.

Trump referenced recent geopolitical events, claiming that the US “defeated Venezuela in one day” and asserting that Iran is “dying to settle.” His remarks came amid heightened tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which reportedly resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with his funeral taking place concurrently on Saturday.

Prior to the speech, Trump unveiled his newly acquired Air Force One, a Boeing 747 plane reportedly gifted by Qatar in a transaction that sparked public debate. The plane, valued at approximately A$576.5 million before refurbishment, flew over the Mount Rushmore crowd as country music artist Chancey Williams performed.

The choice of Mount Rushmore—featuring the carved heads of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—provided a symbolic backdrop for Trump’s remarks. Observers note that Trump’s public appearances on this major national milestone consistently emphasize his own political legacy, as he continues to position himself as a central figure in America’s future.

The July 4 Independence Day celebrations will culminate in a large political rally hosted by Trump on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., featuring military aircraft flyovers and what he has promoted as the world’s largest fireworks display.