The United States is marking its 250th birthday with major concerts in Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Washington, though US President Donald Trump has turned the official celebrations in the capital into what critics call a political rally, with a lengthy speech planned for the National Mall event.
The America250 programme was established by an act of Congress years ago, but the White House has set up a parallel operation, creating what observers describe as a split celebration.
Charles Feldman, US political analyst and host of the SOS America podcast, says the two competing events have given the anniversary a divided feel.
IN: “There are two...”
OUT: “...a political event.”
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http://www.fsnradionews.com/feeds/0704-0741feldman-america2501.mp3